If you are not experiencing any issues with bowel movements, you may not need a footstool.
However, if you are dealing with constipation, hemorrhoids, or pelvic floor disorders, using a footstool could be beneficial. It can help make bowel movements more efficient and reduce straining.
Squatting is the natural position for defecation as it aligns the rectum properly and relaxes the puborectalis muscles, making it easier to pass stool.
Historically, people squatted to defecate, but modern toilets require a sitting position, which may cause the puborectalis muscle to remain partially contracted, making bowel movements difficult.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology in 2019 examined the effect of posture on bowel movements and found that using a footstool while sitting on the toilet can shorten the time needed to defecate and reduce straining.
While the evidence is limited, using a footstool may be helpful for constipated individuals, especially children. It’s worth a try, along with other measures like increasing fluid and fiber intake.
This article addresses a question about using a footstool for defecation.
If you have any questions, please contact us. For more information, visit our Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram Page.
Fun fact: Visit more amazing science pages.
Read more:
Source: www.sciencefocus.com
