Physiotherapy Management of Faecal Impaction: A case report*

Abstract

This case report describes how a physiotherapy modality was used to resolve faecal impaction. A 38-year old man developed faecal impaction after 8 weeks of intensive medical care. A physiotherapist was invited to apply a suitable modality that could bring relief to the patient. The pre-treatment measurement of the distended abdomen was 102 cm. Modified passive mobilization of the lower limbs towards the abdominal
surface was carried out. After 6 sessions, the faecal impaction was resolved. The post-treatment measurement of the abdomen was 86.5 cm. This case demonstrates the important role of a physiotherapy modality in the management of faecal
impaction. It is hoped that this study will stimulate the interest of physiotherapists in the management of this condition.

KEY WORDS: faecal impaction, megacolon, modified passive mobilization, abdominal distention

*This case report was presented at the 46th Annual Scientific Conference of the Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy, November 2006.