Resolution of Chronic Constipation with Chiropractic Care

The Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research published the results of a case study on January 2, 2024, that documented the resolution of chronic constipation under chiropractic care. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases describes this condition on their website as, "Constipation is a condition in which you may have fewer than three bowel movements a week; stools that are hard, dry, or lumpy; stools that are difficult or painful to pass; or a feeling that not all stool has passed."

The study authors report that in western civilizations constipation may affect up to 30% of the general population. They also note that the problem is more common in older populations. Older people in nursing homes can have the highest rates of constipation with numbers as high as 81%, according to one study.

In this case, a 54-year-old woman with a chief complaint of constipation went to the chiropractor. The woman reported that her bowel movements had become infrequent and hard to pass. She reported that she was having less than three bowel movements per week, and she felt a constant sense of bloating in her stomach. She did not have any associated pain from this problem. She had been suffering with these symptoms for the past 8 months. Her stools were hard and would only pass after prolonged straining. She had tried multiple over-the-counter medications and laxatives to limited effect.

A chiropractic examination was performed with the focus of locating the presence of any vertebral subluxations. Subluxations were located, and a course of chiropractic adjustments was started along with recommendations for dietary changes.

After one month of chiropractic care, the woman reported a complete resolution of her constipation. She reported that the frequency of her bowel movements had improved from less than three per week to at least once per day.

In summing up this case, the authors wrote, "Initially, the patient reported to have difficulty with bowel movements with a frequency of less than three per week. After the first month of care, the patient was able to regain bowel function; with a frequency of at least once per day." They continued in their conclusion by saying, "This case study demonstrated a reduction of symptoms pertaining to constipation after receiving chiropractic care. This case suggests the importance of conducting further research to demonstrate the effectiveness of chiropractic in co-managing patients suffering from constipation."