Pelvic floor dysfunction usually results infaecal incontinence. The dysfunctions are decreased rectal sensation, impaired anal sensation, rectal prolapse, and weakness of the pelvic muscles due to complicated birth delivery or prolonged  labour. Trauma to the perineum or the sacral nerve roots is also a cause of pelvic dysfunction. The management involves   medical, surgical and physiotherapy interventions.  Referrals for physical   therapy are however very rare, probably due to low awareness of the role of physical therapists in the management of faecal incontinence.  The management   includes programmes for   strengthening   the pelvic floor muscles using Kegel exercises and electrical muscle stimulation using faradic current. This article highlights   the role of physical therapy  in the management of faecal incontinence.

 

Key words: Faecal incontinence, electrical muscle stimulation, pelvic floor muscles, exercises.