Living with IBS can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to manage the discomfort alone—pelvic floor therapy can help restore balance and ease.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive condition that affects the large intestine. While IBS itself is medically managed through diet, stress reduction, and sometimes medication, many people don’t realize that the pelvic floor muscles often play a significant role in how symptoms like constipation, bloating, or incomplete emptying show up.
When the pelvic floor muscles are tight, weak, or uncoordinated, they can make bowel movements difficult, worsen abdominal discomfort, and even contribute to ongoing bloating. At Sarton Physical Therapy, we specialize in addressing these musculoskeletal contributors—helping your body function more efficiently so your medical care works even better.
IBS itself is a complex condition influenced by the gut-brain connection, diet, stress, changes in your fascia due to inflammation of the colon and sensitivity of the digestive tract. However, many people with IBS also develop pelvic floor dysfunction because the body learns to “hold” tension in response to pain or discomfort. Over time, this creates a cycle: muscles and abdominal fascia tighten, bowel movements become harder, and symptoms feel worse.
Pelvic floor PT focuses on breaking this cycle. By improving muscle coordination, releasing restrictions in the abdomen and pelvis, and teaching the body to relax during bowel movements, patients often notice meaningful improvements in bloating, constipation, and overall comfort.
At your first visit, we take time to understand the full picture of your symptoms—not just your bowel habits, but how your whole body is responding. This includes:
This comprehensive approach ensures we address the musculoskeletal contributions to IBS, giving you tools and strategies that complement your medical management and help you feel more in control of your body.
Overview of Sarton PT’s specialized, evidence-based treatment plan—multi-modal care customized to each patient.
“AFTER BEING DIAGNOSED AT THE AGE OF 8 WITH IBS I HAVE LIVED IN PAIN FOR 20 YEARS.Money thrown for colonoscopy-nothing found. Doctor after doctor who quickly brush me off with more medicine to try nothing worked. When I had my period for 4 weeks on one week off for 4 months straight and in severe pain every single day- my obgyn telling me just take birth control you’ll be fine I felt I couldn’t function. From being diagnosed with PCOS and endometriosis (not truly diagnosed) I knew I needed to find answers and find them quick. My body was telling me something is not right. I stumbled across Sarton PT and was immediately greeted with an angel who finally had some hope for me. As the tears rolled down my face and no hope in my voice she said never give up hope. I very nervously went to the apt and spent what seemed a fortune at the time to see Julie. After sitting with her for 2 hours I walked out with little to no pain from 1 PT apt! She truly is a Godsend and I have never felt so reassured that after 20 years of constant pain I had some relief. She is remarkable and makes you feel you are beautiful on the inside and out. As the road ahead to make many lifestyle changes- going GF and working to repair my body of pain, I know she and her other amazing staff will be with me every step of the way. There will never be words to describe her amazing work except THANK YOU! I walked out with tears in my eyes- not from pain but the happiness of finally not being in pain. Even if it lasted only a few minutes. Side note I’m paying out of pocket and I have never been so sure of anything in my life…….GO!”
You deserve answers and relief from your pelvic pain. Our experienced team is here to guide you in reclaiming your confidence and quality of life.