Constipation In Kids

Constipation is one of the most common causes of bowel and bladder challenges in children — and it often goes unnoticed. Many kids who struggle with infrequent bowel movements, hard stools, or painful poops may also experience accidents, urinary urgency, or bedwetting. At OWN Pediatric Therapy, we help children find lasting relief through gentle, effective strategies that address the root cause.

Understanding Constipation in Children:

Constipation means more than just not going every day — it’s about how the body moves stool through the intestines and how easily it can pass. When we define constipation, we are looking at frequency, consistency & the amount coming out! When stool stays in the colon too long, it becomes dry and hard, making it painful to go. Over time, the stretched colon loses sensation, and children may stop recognizing when they need to poop. This can lead to stool withholding, accidents, and even urinary problems.

Common Signs of Constipation:

  • Infrequent bowel movements or skipping days

  • Large, hard, or painful stools

  • Stool accidents or smearing in underwear

  • Frequent bellyaches or bloating

  • Bedwetting or daytime urinary accidents

  • Avoiding the toilet or showing fear around pooping

Why Constipation Happens:

Constipation can have many causes, including:

  • Withholding due to pain or fear

  • Low fiber or fluid intake

  • Poor posture or body mechanics on the toilet

  • Muscle coordination or pelvic floor dysfunction

  • Sensory or nervous system regulation challenges

  • Changes in routine, stress, or transitions

Every child’s body is different, and what starts as a simple stool-holding habit can quickly become a cycle that affects bladder function, appetite, and mood.

How Pediatric Pelvic Floor Therapy Helps:

Our therapists take a whole-child approach to treating constipation — looking beyond diet alone to understand how your child’s body, habits, and routines work together.
Pediatric pelvic floor therapy helps children:

  • Coordinate pelvic floor and core muscles for easier bowel movements

  • Learn proper toileting posture and relaxation techniques

  • Improve body awareness and urge recognition

  • Develop consistent, healthy bathroom routines

  • Support gut motility and comfort through movement and breath work

We work one-on-one with each child and family to create a plan that fits your child’s needs and lifestyle — helping them feel more comfortable, confident, and in control of their body.

Common Conditions Related to Constipation:

  • Stool withholding

  • Painful or infrequent bowel movements

  • Encopresis (stool accidents)

  • Abdominal pain or bloating

  • Urinary incontinence or urgency linked to constipation

Find Relief for Your Child

Chronic constipation doesn’t have to control your child’s life. With the right support and education, most kids can achieve regular, pain-free bowel movements and feel confident using the toilet. OWN Pediatric Therapy offers pediatric pelvic floor therapy for constipation in Denver, Colorado, and virtually across the U.S. — helping kids and families find lasting relief and peace of mind. Learn more today!

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