Constipation and Massage Therapy

What is the purpose of abdominal massage?

The goal of this therapy is to stimulate peristalsis waves within the colon to initiate movement and alleviate painful abnormal bowel issues such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS.

The massage can be done by you or someone else and performed in your home or in a clinical setting.

The first step is to lie flat on the bed or floor and apply an oil or lotion to the stomach/abdominal area.

Working clockwise, from right to left, use short, firm strokes to move in circular motions starting at the edge of the right ribcage. Do this 5-6 times.

Next, using the tips of your fingers, again start at the edge of the ribcage and, adding gentle but firm pressure, stroke slightly left and downward to below the belly button. Do this 5-6 times.

Now, massage upward and toward the left edge of the ribcage from just below the belly button. Do this side 5-6 times.

Then, using a long stroke and the whole hand, massage from edge of ribcage to groin area. Do 7-8 strokes on each side.

Is it painful?

As you perform this massage, you may notice tenderness around intestinal organs, this will most likely decrease with daily self-massage and regulation of bowel movements.

Rosemary, lemon, and peppermint essential oils are great to use in your massage oil or lotion for this treatment. Herbal teas are also good to promote bowels, using honey to sweeten, not sugar.

Warm baths are helpful to relax muscles around the bowels, as well as throughout the entire body, which can encourage bowel movement.

This stone is called the "Belly Stone" and is used by many massage therapists who work with clients that experience abdominal, stomach, or bowel problems on a regular basis. Warm stones help to ease discomfort and calm the nerves and muscles of the stomach.

This large and heavy stone also helps relieve cramping and add a sense of being grounded when used in the lower belly area. It also delivers a deep, penetrating warmth to the musculature of the lower back and upper sacral region.

Remember, always consult your doctor if you have any questions about bowel issues and/or massage for bowel movement.