What part of the abdomen do you massage for constipation?

Constipation is a common digestive issue that affects an estimated 16-19 percent of the world's population. It can cause uncomfortable symptoms like abdominal pain and bloating, and can ultimately lead to difficulty emptying your bowels. While medications, diet and lifestyle changes, and other treatments may reduce symptoms and normalize your bowel movements, some people find that abdominal massage can also provide relief.

How Does Abdominal Massage Help With Constipation?

Abdominal massage helps to ease constipation in a few ways. First, it can help to relax your stomach muscles. Relaxing these muscles can help to stimulate digestion, which can encourage the release of gas and stool. Secondly, abdominal massage promotes contractions of the large intestine. This helps to move waste through the gut, which can reduce pain and bloating associated with constipation. In addition to providing relief from constipation, abdominal massage may also help with bloating by relieving gas.

Where Do You Massage the Abdomen for Constipation?

Your intestinal tract is located between your hip bones in your lower abdomen. When massaging your abdomen for constipation, it may be helpful to use circular motions as this can aid in the release of gas and stool. You can also focus on the small intestine by using the tips of your index fingers to massage in a clockwise, circular motion around the area of your navel.

What to Know Before Massaging the Abdomen for Constipation

It is important to speak to a doctor before engaging in abdominal massage for constipation relief. In some cases, abdominal massage may be contraindicated due to underlying health conditions. In addition, although using a tennis ball as part of your massage can be tempting, experts recommend against this. This is because the pressure provided by a tennis ball can be too great and potentially unsafe.

Other Tips for Treating Constipation

In addition to abdominal massage, there are other treatments available for constipation relief. Increasing your dietary fiber, water intake, and exercise can all help to normalize your bowel movements and reduce symptoms. Some people may find that medications, probiotics, and other treatments can also reduce constipation. Before beginning any additional treatments, speak to a doctor to ensure that all options are safe for you.

The Bottom Line

Abdominal massage is an effective tool for treating constipation and associated symptoms. You can apply gentle to firm pressure in clockwise, circular motions over your lower abdomen. It is important to consult with your doctor prior to beginning abdominal massage, and keep in mind that other lifestyle and dietary changes may also provide relief.