IBS

Are you experiencing constipation, abdominal cramping, pain, bloating and changes in bowel habits? Is it negatively affecting your daily life? Have you tried all means of treatment but have not been able to get any relief? Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT), the all-natural alternative, may be the answer for you.  

Studies have shown:

• OMT may be beneficial in the treatment of patients with IBS

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms are a result of the interaction between the food we eat and the resident bacterial community in our large bowel. Frequently, there is associated hypersensitivity of the colonic wall to the ‘stretching and distention’ that normally occur during food digestion resulting in pain and discomfort.

Causes

The cause behind the development of IBS is not clear but may occur after a severe gastro-intestinal infection, the use of antibiotics, or prolonged stress.

Symptoms

The symptoms of IBS may range from mild to severe and may occur at least 3 days a week for 3 or more continuous months.The most common symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain/ discomfort
• Gas and bloating – usually worse as the day goes on
• Alternating bowel habits – from constipation to loose bowels
• Frequently, symptoms are worse when one is under external stress or pressure
• Frequently, symptoms are better after a bowel movement
• Certain food triggers may be obvious in some people

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of IBS is based on the symptoms and is a diagnosis of exclusion. Tests to rule out other conditions with similar symptomsmay include:

• Blood tests to identify celiac disease
• Stool sample examination to detect infections
• Blood tests to look for anaemia(iron, folate, or B12 deficiency)
• In some cases, a gastroscopy and a colonoscopy may be ordered where a flexible tube with a camera is used to examine the stomach and small bowels as well as the colon.

Treatment

In some cases, a gastroscopy and a colonoscopy may be ordered where a flexible tube with a camera is used to examine the stomach and small bowels as well as the colon.

• Osteopathic manipulative treatment
• Exercise, timely sleeping habits, and a balanced diet
• Stress, anxiety, and depression management
• Medication may be prescribed for constipation, diarrhea, pain and/or infection
• Homeopathy

For a list of articles supporting OMT, please click here.

Stomach Disorders

• GERD
• IBS