Can Constipation Cause Back Pain?

Back pain is a lesser known but still troublesome symptom of constipation. You may be wondering, “how can constipation cause back pain?” The answer involves the muscles of the pelvic floor and lower back working together to support the spine and help with bowel movements. When these muscles are weak or tight, they can lead to pain in the lower back and other areas of the body. Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders, affecting about 30 percent of people at some point in their lives.

While most people experience constipation occasionally, it can be a chronic condition for some. Constipation can cause numerous symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, and feeling as though one has not completely emptied their bowels after a bowel movement. In severe cases, constipation can also cause rectal prolapse, in which part of the rectum protrudes through the anus. Pelvic floor therapy is a type of physical therapy that can help strengthen and release these muscles, providing relief from constipation-related back pain. Read on to learn more from experts for pelvic floor physical therapy near me about why can constipation cause back pain, along with treatment options.

How can constipation cause back pain?

There are a few reasons why constipation can lead to back pain. For one thing, you tend to strain more when going to the bathroom when experiencing constipation. This straining can put pressure on the discs in your spine, leading to pain. Additionally, those with chronic constipation often report feeling abdominal bloating and distention. Bloating can cause the stomach muscles to pull on the lower back, leading to pain. In addition to general back pain, you may also experience some of the following symptoms when experiencing constipation:

Common Constipation-Related Back Pain Symptoms

• Pain that gets worse when you sit for long periods of time or when you stand up from a seated position
• Radiating pain in your legs or buttocks
• Numbness or tingling in your legs or buttocks
• A feeling of fullness or pressure in your rectum

In addition to the question, “can constipation cause back pain,” you may now be wondering about constipation-related back pain can be treated. The professionals in pelvic floor therapy near me have treatment options to best suit your specific needs and symptoms.

How can I treat constipation-related back pain?

First and foremost, there are a few at-home treatment methods to try if you are still unsure if your back pain stems from constipation.

At-Home Treatments for Constipation-Related Back Pain:

• Drink plenty of water every day—aim for eight glasses.
• Eat a high-fiber diet, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

If you’re experiencing back pain due to constipation and need additional treatment, pelvic floor therapy is a great way to treat immediate symptoms and prevent future pain. Pelvic floor therapy is a type of physical therapy that helps to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. These muscles support the bladder and other organs in the pelvis. When these muscles are weak, they can struggle to provide proper support, which may lead to problems like incontinence or pelvic pain.

Pelvic floor therapy for constipation-related back pain typically involves a combination of exercises and relaxation techniques. These will help to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and reduce muscle tension. Pelvic floor therapy specialists at Peak Physical Therapy work with you to develop exercises, practices, and treatment regimens that best suit your lifestyle, maximize treatment benefits, and strengthen your pelvic floor to prevent future pains.

Peak Physical Therapy | Pelvic Floor Therapy Experts

If you're experiencing back pain resulting from constipation, there are things you can do to find relief. If lifestyle changes are not enough to relieve your symptoms, consider seeking pelvic floor therapy with Peak Physical Therapy. Our team of qualified specialists utilizes the latest practices backed by industry-leading research and provides resources to help you answer even more questions like “can constipation cause back pain?” To browse our resource page or talk with a therapist about our pelvic floor therapy treatments, visit our website.