Effectiveness of Pelvic Floor Muscle Training for Treating Faecal Incontinence

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of pelvic floor muscle training on faecal incontinence. Faecal incontinence is a condition in which stool leaks from the anus involuntarily or uncontrollably. Faecal incontinence is common in elderly people and patients with underlying diseases, but the pathophysiology of faecal incontinence is diverse, and treatment methods must be varied accordingly. Among the known treatment methods, in this study, we focused on pelvic floor muscle training, which can be performed in daily life. The literature was searched for papers that present existing knowledge and address current perspectives. Extracted studies included papers that report scientific consensus. After reviewing the literature, it appears that it is possible to effectively train patients to defecate twice a day, approximately 30 min after breakfast and dinner, by having them attempting to defecate, even when there is no such urge. Pelvic floor muscle training can improve urinary and faecal incontinence by strengthening the contractile force of the pelvic floor muscles such as the external anal sphincter and levator ani. However, the specific types of faecal incontinence patients that can effectively benefit from pelvic floor muscle training is unclear. It is important for patients to understand the pelvic floor muscle training program and to develop sufficient motivation to continue training at home.