Biofeedback Therapy

Please speak to a member of staff if you need this leaflet in large print, braille, audio or another language

 

Introduction

Your Specialist has recommended that you have a course of biofeedback therapy. This is a form of therapy that uses exercises, diet and lifestyle changes to try and improve your bowel symptoms.

You will be asked to attend Royal Stoke Hospital Endoscopy Unit.

Your appointment

Expect to be in the unit for up to 1 hour approximately.

Biofeedback therapy appointments are in high demand so if you are unable to attend your appointment, please contact the Endoscopy Unit as soon as possible Tel: 01782 676010 This will allow your appointment to be offered to another patient.

If you call to cancel your appointment, you will need to provide:

· Your full name.

· Date of birth.

· Date of your therapy.

· Contact telephone number.

You are advised to discuss with your Doctor the implications of not having this procedure.

What is biofeedback therapy?

Biofeedback therapy is a technique used for selected patients suffering from either faecal incontinence, constipation, or both.

Biofeedback involves either retraining the muscles to relax or strengthen muscle tone in your back passage depending on your symptoms.

Please be assured that we will make every effort to ensure your privacy and dignity is maintained during the procedure.

You do not need to be sedated for the procedure.

What are the benefits and risks to biofeedback therapy?

· The procedure is safe and should not be painful.

· There are no known risks or complications.

· Results from the program are largely dependent upon your commitment and effort with the exercises you will be given to do at home.

· A small proportion of patients do not find any benefit from it.

· In many patients biofeedback is an alternative to surgery.

Preparation Instructions

Day of the biofeedback therapy

 · No special preparation is necessary.

 · You can eat and drink as normal before your appointment.

 · You should, if possible, have a bowel movement before coming for the procedure.

What should I bring on the day?

 · Your prescription medication.

· Your reading glasses so that you can read the consent form.

When you arrive

Please report to the Endoscopy Reception. You will be greeted by a Physiologist and then: · You will be asked several questions about your health and current medication. · You may be asked to sign a consent form. · Please talk to us about any worries or concerns that you may have.

What about my medication?

· You may continue to take your prescribed medication as usual.

· If you have any other concerns about your medication, please seek advice from your GP.

Your biofeedback therapy

The procedure will take place in a clinical room.

· You will be asked to undress from the waist down and you will be provided with a sheet to cover yourself.

· You will need to lie on your left side.

· Each stage of the procedure will be explained to you as it happens.

· Your level of comfort will be monitored.

During your therapy

· A small probe will be inserted into your back passage. The probe is connected to a computer.

· You will be asked to squeeze and relax your back passage muscles at certain times this will allow you to see the progress you are making whilst doing your muscle exercises,

· The probe will then be removed and you can get dressed.

· From the initial assessment your individual programme will be discussed with you. This will consist of exercises and possible diet and lifestyle changes. You may be asked to keep a bowel diary,

After your therapy

You will be able to continue your day as normal.

Follow up appointments?

The biofeedback programme will include three sessions. These will either be face to face consultations or telephone consultations.

To obtain the best results, you need to follow the agreed programme.

We can only give you the information, exercises and advice but only you can make the difference. These exercises should become part of your daily life.

 

Concerns or questions about the procedure

For further advice please contact the Endoscopy Unit between 8am and 5pm Monday to Thursday:

Endoscopy Unit Tel: 01782 675715.

Please leave your contact number, full name, date of birth and date of your therapy as this is a voicemail facility. We will return your call as soon as possible.

 

Additional sources of information and support

Bladder and Bowel Foundation www.bladderandbowelfoundation.org

 

Free Bus Service

There is a free shuttle bus service between Royal Stoke and County sites.

Members of the public who wish to use this service are required to pre-book their journey in advance:

Shuttle Bus booking line Tel: 01782 824232

 

How to find us

County Hospital (formerly Stafford Hospital), Weston Road, Stafford, ST16 3SA.

Tel: 01785 257731

Endoscopy Unit is on the ground floor.

Royal Stoke Hospital, Newcastle Road, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 6QG.

Tel: 01782 715444 Endoscopy Unit is on lower ground floor 1.

Please note car parking charges may apply.