Does CP cause constipation?

[ThisSucks!]

I know it can cause IBS, but often I feel constipated...Is this normal??

TS

[webslave]

Constipation is not related to CP/CPPS. Some people have IBS and diarrhoea (there does seem to be a relationship there, and one study supports it), some have constipation, but so do many normal people.

You may find one of your medications is causing it. Try a stool softener and more fluids.

[ThisSucks!]

you don't waste any time do ya??

thanks

[alprost]

My physio mentioned that if you have pelvic floor muscle spasm, these muscles cannot relax as they normally would during the process of defecation, possibly resulting in constipation. I've noticed a big improvement in this area (particularly in the diamater of my stools, although that is probably more info than you need!) since undergoing myofascial release.

[webslave]

I've noticed a big improvement in this area (particularly in the diameter of my stools

Interesting data point

[Richard.N]

particularly in the diamater of my stools

I'm glad you've mentioned that Al. My stool diameter on Elavil has reduced considerably BTW.

[ThisSucks!]

My physio mentioned that if you have pelvic floor muscle spasm, these muscles cannot relax as they normally would during the process of defecation, possibly resulting in constipation. I've noticed a big improvement in this area (particularly in the diamater of my stools, although that is probably more info than you need!) since undergoing myofascial release.

Hehe, thanks for the info...

Probly a stupid question, but what is myofascial release??

[alprost]

Probly a stupid question, but what is myofascial release??

'Myofascial' refers to the skeletal muscle and the connective tissue which surrounds it. The muscles of the pelvic floor are in a state of chronic spasm/tension in a significant number of chronic prostatitis / chronic pelvic pain syndrome patients, and myofascial release involves releasing this tension.

I think it works in the following way: The therapist applies pressure to a tight band of muscle which is in a state of spasm; this then causes a lot of pain in that muscle; in an attempt to 'get away' from the painful stimulus there is a reflex relaxation (release) in the muscle - I think it involves the golgi tendon organ reflex; however, when it relaxes and lengthens, the therapists finger 'follows' the muscle to its new position and applies more pressure; there is then another reflex relaxation of the muscle and therefore the muscle lengthens and returns towards it's normal length.

I'm no expert, and I would recommend purchasing the book 'A Headace in the pelvis' if you want to learn more about this: https://ucpps.men/the-wise-anderson-protocol

I had severe pelvic floor muscle spasm, and have improved around 80% by following a similar course of treatment to the one described in the book.