This information is approved and/or reviewed by U-M Health System providers but it is not a tool for self-diagnosis or a substitute for medical treatment. You should speak to your physician or make an appointment to be seen if you have questions or concerns about this information or your medical condition. Exención de responsabilidad en Español | Complete disclaimer

Biofeedback for Incontinence

What is Biofeedback for Incontinence?
Biofeedback is a safe non-invasive treatment for anal incontinence. The goal of biofeedback therapy is to improve the strength of the muscles used to hold back a bowel movement. The therapy involves performing daily exercises to isolate and strengthen the muscles at home combined with bimonthly feedback sessions in the clinic.

Kegel is the name given to the strengthening exercise. To perform this exercise correctly you should visualize yourself sitting on something hot. Then try to lift your anus off the hot seat without moving your buttocks. It is a squeezing motion. It is important to try not to tense up or squeeze any other muscles in your body. Try to keep your legs arms and stomach relaxed as you squeeze your anus. You will need to perform this exercise 50-100 times a day.

The biofeedback sessions are performed in the clinic with use of an intra-anal plug connected to a machine. The intra-anal plug transmits information about the activity of your sphincter muscles to a computer. This allows you to visualize on the computer the strength and effectiveness of your exercise regime. Thus, giving you feedback on your progress.

What is the procedure?
1. You will need to take 2 Fleet enemas before coming into the clinic to clean out
your rectum. Take the enemas one hour apart from each other.
2. While on the table, you will be asked to turn on your side so that the anal probe
can be inserted. This probe is very small in size and will not hurt.
3. While in an upright sitting position you will be asked to contract and relax the
sphincter anal muscles while records of the muscle activity are recorded and
shown on the computer screen. This will be repeated multiple times. The
procedure normally takes about 20 to 30 minutes to complete.

Location
Biofeedback will be done by UMHS Physical Therapy.

Information provided by UMHS Division of Colorectal Surgery, October, 2003