OMT for the Prevention and Management of Chronic Constipation and Distal Intestinal Obstructive Syndrome in Cystic Fibrosis: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Context: Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder primarily affecting the lungs and digestive system. Patients with CF often have multiorgan dysfunction, including chronic lung infections, pancreatic insufficiency, chronic constipation, and distal intestinal obstructive syndrome (DIOS). Objective: To understand the impact of osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) on the prevention and management of gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with CF. Methods: This study used OMT for physical manipulation of the viscera, spine, and other somatic components to improve bowel symptoms and prevent DIOS. These effects were achieved by releasing myofascial restrictions found in the abdomen and somatic structures with the intent to optimize the autonomic and lymphatic systems and improve range of motion. Results: Four of 5 participants had a decrease in pain, and 3 participants had a reduced need for laxatives during treatment. Four participants had an overall increase in satisfaction with their bowel movements while being treated with OMT. Conclusion: These findings support the use of OMT as a method for the management of chronic constipation and DIOS in the CF population. However, because of the small population size, more research with larger populations is needed.

Comparison of the effects of abdominal massage and osteopathic manipulative treatment home program on constipation in children with cerebral palsy

“…Studies investigating the efficacy of OMT on constipation in different diseases are mainly adult studies, 30,36,37,[40][41][42][43][44][45] and studies involving pediatric age group are very limited. [46][47][48][49] Tarsuslu et al emphasized that osteopathic methods are useful for the treatment of constipation in children with CP, 19 and Zollars et al stated that osteopathic methods improve the quality of life and can provide clinicians and families with an alternative approach to medications. 50 The osteopathic techniques we used in this study were different from the other studies, and although the techniques were applied as a home program, positive results could be obtained as of the first week in reducing constipation in CP.…”

Severe Postoperative Chronic Constipation Related to Anorectal Malformation Managed with Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment

“…OMT has shown preliminary efficacy in adults with functional constipation [11], in reducing gastrointestinal symptoms caused by adjuvant chemotherapy [12] and in patients with distal intestinal obstructive syndrome [13]. However, OMT effects have been described only in 1 case of a child with chronic constipation related to Pitt-Hopkins syndrome, showing an increment in defaecation frequency and better Bristol Stool Chart scores during the treatment period [14].…”

Neurogenic Bowel Dysfunction Changes after Osteopathic Care in Individuals with Spinal Cord Injuries: A Preliminary Randomized Controlled Trial

“…The sample size was chosen in accordance with previous similar studies [ 27 , 28 ] —at least 13 patients should be included.…”