How the bowel changes after SCI

The digestive tract absorbs nutrients and removes waste.

Disrupted nerve communication affects bowel movement and control.

Spastic bowel retains reflexes but loses brain control; flaccid bowel has reduced reflex activity and muscle tone.

Leakage, constipation and other bowel complications may occur.

Manual techniques depend on bowel type and may require caregiver assistance.

Food, fibre and fluids influence stool consistency.

Aging can slow bowel movement and increase constipation or leakage.