An alternative biofeedback-based behavior modification treatment for a case of chronic constipation

• Published in: Journal of behavior therapy and experimental psychiatry Vol. 23; no. 3; pp. 231 - 235
• Main Authors: Singles, Janice M., Mikulka, Peter J., Cox, Daniel J., Mittal, Ravinder K.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford Elsevier Ltd 01.09.1992; Elsevier
• Subjects: Adult; Biofeedback, Psychology; Biological and medical sciences; Constipation - therapy; Defecation; Electromyography; Female; Humans; Medical sciences; Psychology. Psychoanalysis. Psychiatry; Psychopathology. Psychiatry; Relaxation. Biofeedback. Hypnosis. Selfregulation. Meditation; Treatments; Human; Chronicity; Treatment efficiency; Electrophysiology; Muscle contraction; Anal sphincter; Case study; Digestive diseases; Intestinal disease; Biofeedback; Electromyography; Behavior therapy; Woman; Constipation
• ISSN: 0005-7916; 1873-7943
• DOI: 10.1016/0005-7916(92)90040-P

A 31-year old female with chronic constipation was referred for treatment of a paradoxical contraction of the external anal sphincter (EAS) muscle during straining to defecate. The patient was dependent on laxative use and the digital removal of feces. The present program emphasized biofeedback training of the EAS utilizing the inexpensive, non-invasive procedure of disposable surface electrodes placed on the anal verge. Outcome of treatment resulted in an 89% decrease in laxatives used, complete termination of the digital removal of feces, and a notable decrease in EAS tension. The patient was able to maintain these gains at an 8 month follow-up.