Can TENS Therapy Help Rectal Hyposensitivity?

Published on, 20 April, 2025. Answered by Dr. Mahesh Kumar Gupta and Verified by Dr.Galen Team
Patient Question

Hello Doctor,

 

Can TENS electrodes placed over the S3-S4 sacral nerves help improve rectal hyposensitivity? I can only feel type 5 stools and above, but I'm unable to sense type 4 stools or smaller. This loss of sensation occurred after excessive straining from constipation caused by clozapine, which I've since discontinued. My bowel movements are normal now, but I’m still dealing with this issue. Could TENS therapy be a potential solution for restoring normal sensation?

 

Hello,

Thank you for reaching out to Dr. Galen. Please find the below response to your query.

 

1. Based on your symptoms, it seems you may benefit from a combination of treatments aimed at improving rectal sensitivity. While TENS therapy can help with certain types of nerve stimulation, in your case, biofeedback therapy might be more effective in addressing the rectal hyposensitivity you're experiencing. This therapy works by training your brain to better recognize the sensation of stool in the rectum.

 

2. In addition to biofeedback, relaxation exercises and pelvic floor exercises are crucial. These exercises help strengthen the pelvic muscles, improve coordination, and reduce straining during bowel movements, which could help restore some of the sensation you're missing.

 

Thanks

 


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