Abdominal Massage for Adults With an Intellectual Disability and Constipation: A Feasibility Pilot Study.

BACKGROUND

Between 33% and 50% of adults with an intellectual disability experience constipation. The predominant treatment of laxatives is poorly managed and lacks efficacy over time.

AIM: The aim was to determine the feasibility of, and pilot, abdominal massage for adults with an intellectual disability and constipation, administered by their supporter at home, to alleviate their symptoms.

METHOD: Adults with an intellectual disability and constipation were randomised, using a 3:1 ratio, into intervention and control groups. Supporters of adults in the intervention group received training and completed abdominal massage sessions with the person over a 6-week period.

RESULTS

Thirty-one adults and their supporters participated: 24 intervention and 7 control groups. Abdominal massage was found to be a feasible non-pharmacological intervention to use in this population.

CONCLUSION

A large trial is required to determine the effectiveness of this intervention. Co-production is also needed to develop tailored constipation symptoms assessment for this population.