Biofeedback Bowel Retraining Offered in Baltimore, Maryland

The Center for Neurogastroenterology and GI Motility at Mercy provides advanced diagnostic tests and therapies for many GI conditions that tend to be difficult to properly diagnose and treat. GI motility expert Dr. Bryan Curtin uses biofeedback bowel retraining as a therapeutic option for patients experiencing life-limiting conditions such as chronic constipation, fecal incontinence and other anorectal pain disorders.

What is Biofeedback Bowel Retraining?

Biofeedback is used to treat chronic constipation and other anorectal conditions caused by pelvic floor dysfunction. This treatment strengthens and relaxes the muscles that control release of bowel movements by retraining them to improve bowel or bladder function and decrease some types of pelvic floor pain.

How does Biofeedback Bowel Retraining work?

Biofeedback bowel retraining is a painless process that uses special sensors and a computer monitor to display information about muscle activity. This information or “feedback” is used to gain sensitivity, and with practice, exert improved control over pelvic floor muscle function.

An important part of biofeedback therapy is consistent practice of the pelvic floor muscle exercises at home. With biofeedback, an individual can learn to stop using the incorrect muscles, and start using the correct ones.

When is Biofeedback Bowel Retraining an option?

Biofeedback bowel retraining is generally considered a good first-line treatment option for dyssynergic defecation and may also be useful for other anorectal disorders. Our team at Mercy is specially trained in this modality.