Biofeedback therapy is a modern, non-invasive treatment that helps patients gain control over body functions that are usually involuntary, such as muscle contractions, breathing, and bowel movements. By using sensors and monitoring devices, biofeedback provides real-time information about how the body is functioning. Patients can then learn how to adjust these functions through guided exercises and practice.
In the field of colorectal health, biofeedback is especially valuable for treating conditions like chronic constipation, fecal incontinence, and pelvic floor dysfunction. It trains patients to strengthen or relax the right muscles, restore bowel coordination, and improve quality of life without relying solely on medication or surgery.
This guide explains how biofeedback works, which conditions it treats, its benefits, and how the procedure is performed at Alliance Hospital BD. It also addresses common concerns such as whether biofeedback is right for you and how to book therapy in Dhaka.
Biofeedback uses electronic sensors that measure muscle activity, pressure, or nerve responses. These sensors are placed on the skin or within the rectum (depending on the condition being treated).
The information is displayed on a monitor, showing visual or auditory feedback. For example:
If a patient contracts their pelvic floor correctly, the monitor shows a rising graph.
If the muscles fail to relax, the feedback helps the patient adjust their technique.
Through repeated training, patients learn to strengthen weak muscles, relax overactive muscles, and restore coordination between the rectum, anal sphincters, and pelvic floor.
Most biofeedback sessions last 30–60 minutes, and patients usually require 6–10 sessions for significant improvement.
Biofeedback is highly effective in treating constipation caused by dyssynergic defecation (improper coordination of pelvic floor muscles during bowel movements). Instead of relaxing, the pelvic floor may contract, making it difficult to pass stool.
Biofeedback teaches patients to:
Relax the anal sphincter at the right time
Coordinate abdominal muscles with rectal pressure
Reduce straining and improve bowel emptying
Research shows that biofeedback is often more effective than laxatives or medications for this type of constipation.
Dyssynergia occurs when the pelvic floor muscles tighten instead of relaxing during defecation. This leads to incomplete evacuation, bloating, and chronic discomfort.
Biofeedback helps patients retrain their pelvic floor muscles to relax properly, improving bowel movement efficiency.
For patients with uncontrolled stool leakage, biofeedback strengthens the anal sphincter muscles and improves sensation in the rectum. Patients learn to tighten the right muscles when they feel the urge to pass stool, significantly reducing accidents. Explore more details from our blog post.
Biofeedback is also useful for patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or bowel symptoms worsened by stress and anxiety. By teaching relaxation techniques and breathing exercises, biofeedback helps regulate bowel habits and reduce abdominal discomfort.
Biofeedback offers several advantages over traditional treatments:
Non-invasive – No surgery or strong medications required.
Safe and drug-free – Suitable for patients who cannot tolerate medications.
Personalized – Tailored exercises based on each patient’s bowel function.
Effective – Especially useful for chronic constipation and fecal incontinence.
Empowering – Helps patients take control of their condition.
Long-lasting – Skills learned in therapy can be applied for life.
At Alliance Hospital BD, biofeedback therapy is provided in a professional and patient-friendly setting.
Step 1 – Evaluation
Patients undergo diagnostic tests such as anorectal manometry, colon transit study, or defecography to confirm the underlying problem.
Step 2 – Sensor Placement
Small sensors are placed in the rectum or on the skin around the anus to measure muscle activity.
Step 3 – Training Sessions
Patients are guided through exercises such as squeezing, relaxing, or bearing down while monitoring progress on a screen.
The therapist provides feedback and teaches correct muscle coordination.
Step 4 – Follow-up
Most patients attend multiple sessions (weekly or biweekly).
Progress is tracked until significant improvement is achieved.
Biofeedback is especially recommended for patients with:
Chronic constipation unresponsive to diet and medications
Pelvic floor dysfunction or dyssynergia
Fecal incontinence
Stress-related bowel disorders
Post-surgery bowel coordination problems
It may not be suitable for patients with severe neurological damage, advanced cancer, or those unable to follow instructions. Your doctor will evaluate your condition and recommend if biofeedback is the right option.
If you are struggling with constipation, incontinence, or pelvic floor dysfunction, biofeedback therapy may help you regain control and improve your quality of life.
📞 Contact us today to schedule your consultation and start a customized biofeedback therapy program with our experienced specialists.
Biofeedback therapy is a safe, non-invasive, and highly effective treatment for chronic constipation, fecal incontinence, and pelvic floor dysfunction. By providing real-time feedback on muscle activity, it helps patients retrain their body, strengthen weak muscles, and improve bowel control naturally.
At Alliance Hospital BD, we combine modern diagnostic tools with expert-led biofeedback programs, giving patients the opportunity to restore confidence, comfort, and long-term bowel health.