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Treating Small Bowel Obstruction with a Manual Physical Therapy: A Prospective Efficacy Study
Amanda D Rice1, Kimberley Patterson1, Evette D Reed1
1Clear Passage Physical Therapy, 4421 NW 39th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32606, USA.
Manual physical therapy significantly improved pain and quality of life for patients experiencing small bowel obstructions (SBOs) caused by adhesions. This treatment offers a promising option for managing SBO symptoms and improving patient well-being.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Physical Therapy
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- Small bowel obstructions (SBOs) are a frequent and serious postsurgical complication resulting from adhesions.
- Limited effective treatment options exist for patients suffering from adhesive SBOs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a manual physical therapy regimen for improving pain and quality of life in patients with adhesive SBOs.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, controlled survey-based study was conducted.
- The Small Bowel Obstruction Questionnaire (SBO-Q) assessed six quality of life domains before and after treatment.
- Trunk range of motion was also measured.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements were observed in pain, overall quality of life, and pain severity domains of the SBO-Q.
- Gastrointestinal symptoms showed marginal improvement.
- No significant changes were noted in diet or medication domains.
- Trunk range of motion significantly improved.
Conclusions:
- Manual physical therapy is an effective treatment for adhesive small bowel obstructions.
- The protocol positively impacts patient-reported symptoms and quality of life.
- Further research with larger cohorts is warranted to confirm these findings.
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