Learn how abdominal massage can help relieve constipation and improve digestion naturally. Discover the benefits of this simple and effective technique.

Constipation is a common digestive disorder that affects people of all ages. It is characterized by rare deposits and difficulty evacuating. Although there are several treatment options, some people turn to alternative therapies such as abdominal massage to relieve their symptoms.

Abdominal massage is a technique that consists in applying soft pressures and kneading movements in the abdomen. The objective of this technique is to stimulate the digestive system, promote peristaltism and relieve constipation. Regular abdominal massage can help improve intestinal movements and reduce swelling and discomfort.

Benefits of abdominal massage for constipation:

1. Improvement of intestinal movements: abdominal massage helps stimulate intestine muscles, promoting soft and regular intestinal movements.
2. Swelling relief: soft pressure applied during abdominal massage can help release trapped gases and reduce swelling.
3. Pain reduction: constipation can often cause pain and abdominal discomfort. Abdominal massage can help relieve these symptoms by promoting relaxation and relieving muscle tension.

It is important to note that abdominal massage should not be used as the only treatment for chronic or severe constipation. If you experience persistent constipation or if your symptoms get worse, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for adequate evaluation and orientation.

Constipation and its Effects on the Body

When the normal intestinal evacuation pattern is altered, a series of annoying symptoms may occur. Among them, swelling, pain or abdominal discomfort, effort during defecation and feeling of fullness even after defecating. Beyond discomfort, constipation can have several adverse effects on the body, both in the short and long term.

Short term

• Greater risk of hemorrhoids: the effort during defecation can exert pressure on the veins of the rectum and the anus, which causes the appearance of hemorrhoids, which are swollen blood vessels in the anal area.
• Abdominal distension: When the feces accumulate in the intestine, they can cause swelling and abdominal distension. This can cause discomfort and feeling of heaviness in the stomach.

Long-term:

• Involved intestine: If constipation persists, feces can become dry and hard, making evacuation difficult. This can lead to the formation of a hard mass in the colon called intestine impacted, which requires medical intervention to eliminate it.
• Intestinal obstruction: In severe cases, chronic constipation can cause a complete obstruction of the intestine, completely preventing the passage of feces. This condition, known as intestinal obstruction, requires immediate medical care.

It is important to treat constipation promptly to prevent these possible complications and improve gastrointestinal health in general. There are several treatment options, such as lifestyle changes, diet modifications and, in some cases, medical interventions prescribed by health professionals.

The Benefits of Abdominal Massage for Relieving Constipation

1. Improvement of intestinal traffic: Abdominal massage can help relieve constipation by stimulating abdomen and intestines muscles. The pressure applied during massage can trigger peristaltism, undulating contractions that drive waste through the digestive tract. This stimulation helps to move stool along the intestines, facilitating easier and more regular deposits.

According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, the regular abdominal massage significantly improved the frequency of deposits and reduced the severity of constipation symptoms in participants with chronic constipation. The study discovered that the massage technique effectively increased colonic motility, which improved the transit time of feces.

2. Increased circulation: Another benefit of abdominal massage to relieve constipation is its potential to increase blood flow to digestive organs. By improving circulation, massage technique can improve oxygen delivery and nutrients to intestines, helping their optimal functioning. This increased blood flow also favors the elimination of waste products and toxins from the digestive system, even more helping to relieve constipation.

• The increase in circulation helps to effectively absorb the water of the intestines, softening the feces and facilitating their evacuation.
• The improvement of blood flow in the abdominal zone can also relax tense muscles and reduce abdominal cramps, frequent symptoms of constipation.

3. Stress reduction: Abdominal massage offers a double benefit, as it not only targets the physical symptoms of constipation, but also addresses its underlying psychological factors. Stress and anxiety are known to contribute to digestive problems, including constipation. The rhythmic, relaxing movements of abdominal massage can promote relaxation, reduce stress levels, and help relieve constipation symptoms caused by emotional distress.

How to Perform Abdominal Massage for Constipation

Procedure for Abdominal Massage

Before beginning the abdominal massage, it is important to make sure that the hands are clean and the person receiving the massage is in a comfortable position, such as lying on their back. Follow these steps:

1. Apply a small amount of warm oil, such as olive or almond oil, to your hands.
2. Start by placing both hands flat on your abdomen, just above your pubic bone.
3. Apply gentle pressure and move your hands in circles, following the natural direction of the colon. It is important to always move from the right side of the abdomen to the left, as this mimics the natural flow of waste in the digestive tract.
4. Continue this circular motion for about 5-10 minutes, gradually increasing the pressure if you feel comfortable.
5. Focus on areas of tension or discomfort, applying more pressure and spending more time on those areas.

Important: Consider the person’s comfort and never apply excessive pressure that causes pain or discomfort.

Abdominal massage can be done two or three times a day, preferably before meals, to stimulate bowel movements. It is important to note that although abdominal massage can relieve constipation, it may not be suitable for everyone. People with certain medical conditions, such as hernia, pregnancy, or recent abdominal surgery, should consult their doctor before undergoing an abdominal massage.

Precautions and Considerations when Practicing Abdominal Massage for Constipation

Precautions

• Consult with a healthcare professional: before trying an abdominal massage for constipation, it is essential to consult a qualified health professional. This can evaluate the specific state of the person and determine if this technique is suitable for it. It is especially important that people with underlying medical conditions, such as gastrointestinal disorders or abdominal hernias, ask a professional for advice before proceeding to abdominal massage.
• Adequate positioning: The right position during abdominal massage is essential to avoid causing additional discomfort or complications. The person who receives the massage must be comfortably lying on his back with his knees flexed, allowing the abdomen to relax. Playing a pillow under the knees can help relieve any tension in the lumbar area and increase relaxation.
• Soft pressure: excessive or energetic pressure should be avoided during abdominal massage, especially in people with sensitive or delicate abdomen. The masseuse or the person who performs the automase must apply a gentle and constant pressure with the palm of the hand or fingertips, gradually increasing as it is tolerated.

Considerations

1. Individual sensitivity: Each person can have a different level of sensitivity and response to abdominal massage. It is essential to be attentive and adjust the pressure and technique based on the comfort and reaction of the person. If pain or discomfort is experienced, the massage must be interrupted immediately.
2. Pregnancy: Pregnant women should be careful and consult their doctor before undergoing an abdominal massage. Some massage techniques may not be adequate during pregnancy, and a professional can guide on safe alternatives, if necessary.
3. Contraindications: There are certain conditions in which the abdominal massage is contraindicated and should be avoided. Among others, recent abdominal surgeries, wounds or abdominal lesions, inflammation of intestines and active infections. In such cases, it is crucial to seek medical advice and refrain from practicing abdominal massage.

Other Natural Remedies and Lifestyle Changes to Complement Abdominal Massage for Constipation Relief

Diet modifications: Making certain changes in diet can significantly influence intestinal regularity. Fibe r-rich foods help increase the volume of feces and facilitate their transit through the digestive tract. Incorporating more fruits, vegetables and whole grains into the diet is an excellent way to increase fiber intake. In addition, staying hydrated consuming an adequate amount of water can soften the feces and avoid dehydration, which can contribute to constipation.

Tip: among suggested fiber foods are included:

1. Apples
2. Pears
3. Broccoli
4. Spinach
5. Quinoa
6. Oatmeal

Regular exercise: Practicing a physical activity regularly can help stimulate intestinal movements and relieve constipation. Exercise increases muscle contractions in intestines, favoring the movement of waste through the digestive system. Activities such as walking, running, doing yoga or bicycle can be beneficial to relieve constipation. It is recommended to perform at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise most days of the week.

Note: Consult a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise routine, especially if you suffer from pr e-existing diseases.

Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that favor a healthy balance of intestinal flora. These living microorganisms can facilitate digestion and prevent constipation. Among the foods rich in probiotics are yogurt, kefir, chucrut and kimchi. Probiotic supplements can also be taken to guarantee an adequate intake of beneficial bacteria.

When to Seek Medical Help for Constipation

These are some situations in which you should consider consulting a healthcare professional for its constipation:

• If constipation lasts more than two weeks despite sel f-care measures, it can be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires evaluation.
• Experimenting intense abdominal pain or cramps that do not refer with common remedies can be an alarm signal of a more serious problem.
• The presence of blood in the feces should never be ignored, which must require immediate medical care.
• A sudden change in depositions, such as the alternation between constipation and diarrhea, can indicate an underlying intestinal disorder that must be investigated.

Note: If you suffer from a pr e-existing disease, such as diabetes or hypothyroidism, and experience persistent constipation along with a worsening of symptoms, it is essential that you consult your healthcare professional to indicate the appropriate treatment and orientation.

An exhaustive medical evaluation may include a physical exam, the review of the medical history and the possibility of requesting diagnostic tests. If you seek medical help quickly, you can identify the underlying causes of constipation and treat them accordingly, improving your general digestive health.

LikeDislike

Author of the article

Dr.Greenblatt M.

Medical oncologist at the Robert Larner College of Medicine, MD, at the University of Vermont