Fibre & Pelvic Health

Written By Danielle Bararuk

Written by Danielle Bararuk | Aug 6, 2019

Did you know that nearly 50 percent of people that struggle with chronic constipation have pelvic floor dysfunction?  There is a definite link between diet and constipation and therefore a link between diet and pelvic floor health.  Constipation can be described and present in a number of different ways. Straining, hard or thin stools, a feeling of incomplete evacuation, abdominal pain, and/or infrequent bowel movements are a few of the common signs and symptoms.  Chronic constipation can also cause dysfunction to the pelvic floor muscles by weakening them overtime.

We start by addressing diet and fluid intake with a fibre and fluid intake diary.  Dehydration can result in hard, lumpy and difficult-to-evacuate stools. Therefore, drinking enough water is a very important piece in managing constipation.  Daily fiber intake is another important piece of puzzle. There are two types of fibre. Soluble fiber can help increase water absorption into the digestive tract to soften the stool and promote movement through the system. Soluble fiber retains water and turns to gel during digestion. It also slows digestion and nutrient absorption from the stomach and intestine. Soluble fiber is found in foods such as oat bran, barley, nuts, seeds, beans, lentils, peas, and some fruits and vegetables. Insoluble fiber speeds up the passage of foods through the stomach and intestines and adds bulk to the stool. It is found in foods such as wheat bran, vegetables and whole grains.  Both types of fibre will aid in prevention and management of constipation.

We also know that getting more physical activity can increase blood flow throughout the body and promote movement throughout your bowels.  Assessing and treating physical limitations that prevent participation in activity is a huge part of what physiotherapists do within their scope of practice.

When it comes to pelvic floor dysfunction, a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist will also look at toileting habits, breathing mechanics and if there is any underlying pelvic floor muscle tension and/or weakness.  All of these factors can contribute to or be the result of chronic constipation.  Come see one of us today if constipation and pelvic floor dysfunction effects your health.

 

Danielle Bararuk

Physiotherapist

Pelvic Health Physiotherapist

Paediatric Physiotherapist

 
Danielle Bararuk

Danielle Bararuk strongly believes that physiotherapy is both a proactive and reactive profession. She is passionate that it is not only her goal to get someone well after injury but to empower patients’ to take control of their recovery and to stay well.

Danielle completed her Bachelor of Physical Therapy at the University of Saskatchewan in 2008. Danielle started her career in the private practice setting treating Musculoskeletal injures and became fascinated with the biomechanics and the complexity of the human body. She has spent her time over the past ten years gaining experience treating all ages and all types of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. Her aim is to reestablish appropriate movement patterns, improve function and reduce the likelihood of re-injury. She always uses an individualized treatment approach that incorporates manual therapy, exercise prescription and patient education. Danielle believes that by listening to her patients and having them be an active component in their own rehab, she can provide them with the correct treatment and education to empower them to reach their treatment goals.

Danielle has completed additional education courses in orthopaedic manual therapy, myofascial release and pelvic floor physiotherapy. Danielle has a special interest in pediatric physiotherapy and is excited to be adding additional pediatric educational courses in the near future!

Danielle believes in leading a healthy and balanced lifestyle and the importance of spending quality time with her family and friends. She enjoys physical activity daily with her three young children and you can usually find her out walking, running or biking on a trail with them. Life is full of adventure and wonderful experiences and Danielle aims to help you return to the ones that are most important to you!

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