Advanced Care Program: Paralysis

Bowel Management

With paralysis, damage can occur to the nerves that allow an individual to control bowel movements. Whether the problem is a reflex bowel or a flaccid bowel, both types can be managed successfully to prevent unplanned bowel movements and other problems such as constipation, diarrhea, or impaction.

To help ensure success with your bowel program:

• Adhere to an exercise program (range of motion exercises)
• Avoid full-size enemas which are too irritating to the bowel for use on a regular basis. Use "mini-enemas" which only have a few drops of stool softener
• Avoid the use of oral stimulant laxatives
• Before cleaning, conduct a final check of the rectum to ensure it is empty
• Do not do more than four digital stimulations at a time
• Do not rush. Be patient. Allow enough time and privacy to complete your bowel program
• Do your bowel program after a meal or hot beverage - this will help stimulate a bowel movement
• Eat a well-balanced diet with high fiber foods
• If possible transfer to a toilet - gravity will assist you in emptying your bowel
• Maintain your bowel program on a regular, predictable schedule
• Trim long fingernails to avoid damage to the rectal tissue
• Try to do your bowel program at the same time of the day each time - this will help you avoid bowel accidents
• Wash and dry the area before getting dressed

If your bowel management program begins to produce less than the desired results or if you are experiencing more frequent bowel accidents, contact your doctor and your Advanced Medical Group customer service representative or sales representative. We can discuss your bowel management program with your doctor and develop an effective program to help you avoid possible bowel accidents and/or emergency room visits for fecal impactions (stools that you cannot pass on your own).

Paralysis Topics

Recognizing and Preventing Autonomic Dysreflexia
Recognizing and Preventing Pressure Sores
Recognizing and Preventing Urinary Tract Infections
Skin Care
Osteoporosis and Fractures
Spasticity
Bowel Management
Respiratory Complications
Smoking and Paralysis
Male Sexuality
The Importance of Range of Motion Exercises
Female Sexuality
Nutrition & Spinal Cord Injury
Wheelchair Cushion Maintenance
Latex Allergies