Abdominal massage for constipation: Techniques, evidence base and safety

Abstract

Constipation is a common gastrointestinal symptom worldwide, affecting 12–19% of adults (Wald et al, 2008). It is defined as a ‘subjective complaint of the passage of abnormally delayed or the infrequent passage of dry, hardened stools, often accompanied with pain’ (Croffie and Fitzgerald, 2000). Symptoms of constipation with no underlying physiological, anatomical or histological abnormalities are referred to as idiopathic. For most people, constipation is temporary and not serious, usually resolving with simple lifestyle and dietary changes. However, for some, symptoms of constipation can persist and the condition requires medical intervention (Richmond, 2003).

This clinical skills paper provides a general overview of abdominal massage, including an examination of the mechanism of action, safety issues and a review of the current evidence base in clinical gastroenterology.