IBS TREATMENT & MANAGEMENT IN OTTAWA, ON

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is known as a functional gastrointestinal disorder (FGID) along with functional dyspepsia. These are characterized by chronic or recurrent abdominal pain, and in the case of IBS, change in bowel habits that are either relieved or exacerbated with defecation. There are three subtypes of IBS: IBS with constipation (IBS-C), IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D) and IBS with mixed symptoms (IBS-M). The latter is the most commonly diagnosed but it is not uncommon for patients to switch between subtypes. In all cases, abdominal bloating is reported to be the number one symptom in IBS patients.

There are currently no biomarkers to diagnose IBS, but instead must be based on patient’s most bothersome symptoms. While there is no one-size-fits-all etiology for the onset of IBS, studies have shown that a single experience or combination of the following play a part: bowel motility, visceral hypersensitivity, psychosocial triggers, altered gut-brain interactions, low grade inflammation, alteration in gut microbiome, genetic factors. Anxiety and depression are highly comorbid with IBS.

At Femade, we can support digestion and bowel issues in many ways. The shared goal is to allow your body to function the way it was meant to, while we assist it along the way. no topic is taboo for us; this is a safe space!

Acupuncture for irritable bowel syndrome

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, we are aware of the gut-brain connection (the gut-brain axis) and how they communicate through the nervous system (the nerves). What we aim to do is regulate the nerves so that the gut can function properly.

When the bowels are receiving too many ‘urgent’ signals from the brain (ex. Irritable Bowel Syndrome), Acupuncture can calm the nerves so the bowels can take a break. Conversely, if the patient has not been able to properly have a bowel movement (constipation, SIBO), acupuncture can help move things along.

Physiotherapy for irritable bowel syndrome

Physiotherapy can help discern structural factors that may be impacting bowel movements. We can teach the patient how to align the pelvic floor for optimal bowel movements, how to breathe through (and reduce) any painful sensations during bowel movements and apply gentle pressure (splinting) to assist the process. In some cases rectal muscles may need to be retrained by a pelvic floor physiotherapist who can help you become more familiar with these muscles and their functions.

Massage therapy for irritable bowel syndrome

Massage therapy can be used to address digestion and motility issues by applying a gentle abdominal massage in the direction of a bowel movement. Bowels can be affected by stress, medications, or surgery. This soothing approach allows the body to relax while stimulating and engaging the bowels.

A similar gentle abdominal massage can be used on scar tissue/adhesions, for stress release, and can be used in conjunction with pelvic floor physiotherapy.

LIFESTYLE CHANGES for irritable bowel syndrome

We offer Naturopathic Medicine though the lens of FODMAP, plant based diets and gut health to help achieve the right balance of fibers for all subtypes of IBS. This is handled in conjunction to a full assessment of other dietary, immune, inflammatory and other comorbid issues that may be impacted by diet and lifestyle. Additionally we offer Nutrition services that also provide an in-depth assessment of your triggers and beneficial foods, and includes meal plan ideas to slowly integrate the dietary changes that are needed to mitigate the symptoms.

Psychotherapy for digestion

Digestion and the symptoms of digestion can be very isolating. It can mean bloating and discomfort. It can mean diarrhea and running to the bathroom. Many of these digestion issues have an inherent relationship with anxiety. Furthermore, IBS has a strong neural connectivity. Psychotherapy can be used to better address the triggers in your life that bring on these symptoms. Learning how to deal with stress and stressful situations, getting out of the routine, and understanding how your body works are very important lessons in coping with digestive issues. Psychotherapy is a well studied treatment for understanding and changing behaviours associated with eating disorders. Therapy can be done in a more formal setting such as with our psychotherapist, or in a more informal setting with our Mental Health Support Worker who is completely unbiased. We also offer community based therapy to immerse yourself with similar people.

Not sure where to start?

If you’re not sure where to start, consider a health consult with our clinical director and founder. We can take it from there.