Abdominal massage helps with constipation? – GOOD SHAPE

Recently, tiktok seems to have found the solution to the constipation problem: the #GutTok, abdominal massages that help reduce bloating and constipation. But do abdominal massages really have that effect?

The good news is that viral trending does offer some relief from the symptoms of swelling and discomfort, but only when it’s done correctly.

WHAT ARE ABDOMINAL MASSAGES?

The theory is that abdominal massages help reduce symptoms (such as constipation and bloating) by manually moving stool forward. In many videos on TikTok, users are shown pressing their hands along their stomach in a circular motion to massage the area in hopes of getting things moving in their digestive tract. To reap the benefits of an abdominal massage, however, the direction in which you move your hands when giving the massage and the pressure used are critical.

BUT DO THEY WORK?

The truth is, few studies provide concrete evidence about the benefits of massages for digestive health. However, when combined with a good intake of fiber and clean water, it can’t hurt.

According to the physiotherapist Cadu Ramos, abdominal massage can aid digestion by stimulating peristalsis, or the natural muscle contractions of the large and small intestines that move contents around the area. In this way, it helps to reduce constipation, bloating and increase the frequency of bowel movements.

ARE THEY SAFE?

Massages don’t offer great risks, but it’s important to filter what you learn on the internet. Some videos of TikTokers using a tennis ball instead of their hands to perform an abdominal massage spread on the internet, but according to Lisa Ganjhua professor of gastroenterology and hepatology, the tennis ball puts on a lot of pressure, possibly making the massage dangerous.

HOW TO MAKE?

The most common method mentioned on TikTok that is also recommended by doctors is the “ILU” technique. It is a guide on how to do the abdominal massage movements that refers to the appearance of the movement of the hands on the stomach. The “ILU” technique can also resemble a giant “U” shape if you are looking at your abs while doing the massage.

Start on the lower right side above the hip bone and then work your way up below the ribs, across the upper part of the belly to the left of the ribs and then down to the lower left hip bone.

TO ENHANCE THE EFFECT

Cadu suggests starting with a walk and then doing the abdominal massage, so the bowel starts working a few minutes later.

“It’s easy, simple and can save many people from the need to take medications that can even be dangerous for the intestinal tract. It is a safe measure, with no contraindications, which uses only dynamic physiotherapy to release the intestinal tract”, concludes Cadu Ramos.