Lymphatic drainage in intestinal constipation

Abstract

Constipation is the most prevalent gastrointestinal disorder, having a negative impact due to its recurrent symptoms. The management of constipation remains challenging, and new therapies are needed. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effectiveness of manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) for stimulating intestinal peristalsis in women with constipation. METHODS: Ten women with constipation participated in the MLD protocol twice a week, lasting 30 minutes each, totaling 12 sessions, the first and last being intended for assessment, in which the Visual Analogue Pain Scale instruments were applied. (VAS) and Bristol Scale for Stool Consistency (EBCF), laboratory examination of functional coprology and assessment of peristalsis and abdominal distension. RESULTS: After 10 sessions of DLM, a significant improvement could be observed in the pre- and post-evaluation comparison in intestinal motility (p = 0.000), spontaneous pain (p = 0.000) and during palpation (p = 0.000) in the four intestinal quadrants, in abdominal distension (p < 0.001), normalization of fecal pH, improvement in the intestinal absorption of vegetables, starch and proteins, increase in the number and volume of bowel movements as well as improvement in the type of stool consistency, reaching normal consistency. CONCLUSIONS: DLM is effective for stimulating intestinal peristalsis in women with constipation.

Key-words: Manual Lymphatic Drainage. Intestinal Constipation. Dysbiosis. Peristalsis.