Osteopathic approach to Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms

Abstract

Irritable bowel syndrome or irritable bowel syndrome is a functional disorder characterized by abdominal cramps, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and diarrhea. Its diagnosis is based on the exclusion of other organic diseases and conventional therapy for its treatment seeks to control symptoms through drugs and dietary recommendations. The objective was to evaluate the relevant literature and determine if osteopathic treatments improve the symptoms associated with IBS. Articles were searched without language restrictions or publication date in databases such as PubMed, Cochrane Library, PEDro and Osteopathic Research Web. Five studies were selected. The results analyzed in these studies revealed that osteopathic treatment reduces IBS symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and only in a randomized controlled trial does it improve diarrhea. Also, it was evidenced that through this therapy the IBS severity score decreases and quality of life improves. No study reported serious or statistically significant adverse events from osteopathic manual therapy.