Effect of Whole-body Vibration on Postmenopausal Constipation

Constipation is common in menopause with prevalence ranging from 4% to 29% in various parts of the world. The incidence of constipation among postmenopausal women has been reported to be 37.3%. It can affect the physical, mental and social well-being of women; it reduces individual productivity and creates a significant burden on society and disrupting women's quality of life.

Postmenopausal constipation needs to be treated as it can cause serious problems as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, pelvic organ prolapse and severe pain during defecation.

Laxatives can prevent constipation but its overuse may lead to dependency and decreased bowel function . Also, it may cause some side effects as rectal bleeding, bloody stools, severe cramps or pain, weakness or unusual tiredness, unexplained changes in bowel patterns, severe diarrhea, weakness or unusual tiredness.

Whole body vibration strengthens smooth muscles through oscillation, which causes muscles to rapidly contract and relax. This has been shown to significantly improve the condition of those with chronic functional constipation.

Whole body vibration can aid in minimizing the build up of toxins because it increases blood flow and prevent accumulation of wastes in the colon. Also, it improves gut microbiota that aid in digestion due to increased intestinal permeability.

Few studies have investigated the effect of whole body vibration specifically on postmenopausal woman. So, this study will be conducted to investigate the effect of the whole body vibration on functional constipation in postmenopausal women to provide an insight for the benefits of such intervention in the management of postmenopausal constipation.

Inclusion criteria

• Fifty postmenopausal women are clinically diagnosed as having functional constipation after menopause (at least one year after stoppage of last menstrual cycle)
• Their age will be ranged from 50 to 60 years old.
• Their body mass index will not exceed 30 kg/m2.
• They will not receive any medical treatment.
• All of them should have at least two criteria of Rome III diagnostic criteria of constipation.

Exclusion criteria

• Irritable bowel syndrome or anal fissures.
• Genital organ prolapse as rectocele.
• Any neurological diseases, spinal diseases or spinal deformities.
• History of bowel surgery.