In the interim, what appears to be required for
this client group is an individualised, integrated
bowel management programme, considering
all aspects of the patients’ care, and in which
massage therapy may well have a role to play for
at least some individuals. The present policy of
closing large residential institutions, and the
associated move into smaller community homes,
provides an ideal opportunity to offer this alternative
treatment to those adults for whom the
standard laxative regimen appears ineffective
or associated with pain and discomfort