title: Does abdominal massage relieve constipation?
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Abdominal massage has been used to treat constipation since the 19th century, yet questions remain over its effectiveness and which patient groups benefit from it the most.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To determine whether abdominal massage is effective for the relief of constipation.
  
  
  METHODS
  A review of observational studies, case reports and randomised controlled trials was carried out to determine whether abdominal massage is effective in relieving constipation.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Abdominal massage can relieve constipation of various physiological causes. It stimulates peristalsis, decreases colonic transit time and increases the frequency of bowel movements. It also reduces discomfort and pain, induces.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Abdominal massage should be considered when treating patients with constipation. It has no adverse side-effects and can easily be taught to patients and carers so they can undertake it themselves.
authors.affiliation: Midwifery and Allied Health Professions Research Unit, Glasgow Caledonian University, USA.
authors.forename: Doreen
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: McClurg
authors.forename: Andrea
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Lowe-Strong
mesh_terms: D003248:Constipation / Q000451:nursing* / Q000628:therapy*; D055318:Evidence-Based Nursing; D006801:Humans; D008405:Massage / Q000379:methods*