What is biofeedback?
Biofeedback is a term used to describe a package of non-drug treatment which uses a combination of techniques to retrain your bowel to work more effectively.
You may be sent for this treatment if you have been experiencing troublesome bowel problems such as faecal incontinence, constipation or difficulties emptying your bowel.
How does the biofeedback work?
Your biofeedback session will be conducted by a specialist nurse, physiotherapist or physiologist. They will have a wealth of experience in dealing with difficult bowel complaints and will always make you feel at ease and comfortable.
Initially, the specialist practitioner will take a detailed history. They may conduct an examination of your pelvic floor muscles via a vaginal assessment (in women), anal assessment, or both if required. A physical examination allows the practitioner to assess how the pelvic floor muscles that control your bowels are functioning.
Sometimes the practitioner may need to use a high-resolution anal manometry probe to help educate your muscles a little better. This is a narrow probe (about half the width of your little finger) which is inserted into your back passage.
It may feel uncomfortable when the probe is inserted, but it should not be painful. We understand you may feel embarrassed, and will help you feel at ease throughout.
The probe allows visualisation of the muscles in your back passage to see how these are working. It measures pressures which are shown as a colour plot on a screen. We can use the colour plot to help retrain and strengthen your muscles.
How much does a biofeedback cost?
If you are paying for this yourself and not through private medical insurance, the cost will be £225.
How do you prepare for a biofeedback?
You do not need any special preparation for your appointment. You may eat and drink as normal and continue with any normal medication.
What does the biofeedback diagnose?
The probe allows visualisation of the muscles in your back passage to see how these are working. It measures pressures which are shown as a colour plot on a screen. We can use the colour plot to help retrain and strengthen your muscles.
Your treatment plan will often involve a bowel retraining programme, dietary and medication advice, a pelvic floor exercise programme, and lifestyle advice to promote easier and more complete bowel emptying.
Following the biofeedback, your data will be analysed and results written up into a report. The report will be sent to both you and your referring consultant/doctor, who will explain the results to you in a follow-up consultation.
An excellent service from beginning to end. I would recommend to anyone who was considering having testing done. Very friendly and knowledgeable
Manchester Patient