Rectal outlet dysfunction refers to the difficulty in relaxing the pelvic muscles around the anal and rectal area to facilitate stool passage. This condition often involves high anal resting pressure, anismus (a condition characterized by involuntary contraction of the anal sphincter), and incomplete relaxation of the anal sphincter.

In practical terms, this dysfunction manifests as an inability to relax the pelvic muscles, which impedes stool evacuation. Patients may experience significant straining without success, and this persistent effort can even lead to the prolapse of organs.

Colorectal specialists use motility testing to diagnose this issue. Results often reveal that patients cannot voluntarily relax their anal sphincter even though they may mistakenly believe they are doing so. This misperception is frequently observed during pelvic floor assessments, where patients might demonstrate more contraction than relaxation, despite instructions to relax as if passing stool.

How Advanced Pelvic Health Solutions Can Help

At Advanced Pelvic Health Solutions, we are dedicated to addressing rectal outlet dysfunction with precision and care. As a pelvic floor physical therapist with over a decade of expertise in colorectal conditions, I offer the following support:

• Understanding Pelvic Anatomy: We provide detailed education on the anatomy of your pelvic muscles to enhance your comprehension of how they function.
• Awareness and Differentiation: We help you develop a heightened awareness of your pelvic muscles, enabling you to distinguish between contraction and relaxation.
• Control and Training: We offer targeted training to help you gain control over your pelvic muscles, teaching you to relax them effectively rather than inadvertently tightening them.

Our approach ensures that you remain in control of your treatment journey. We empower you with the tools and knowledge needed to manage your symptoms independently and prevent recurrence. At Advanced Pelvic Health Solutions, our goal is to provide lasting solutions and support for a healthier future.