Many patients with LARS claim that irrigation to clean out the colon greatly decreases the daily distress and LARS symptoms. Irrigation must be done carefully and under the advisement of a doctor. There are irrigation products by Coloplast that can be used, and some patients also buy supplies via Amazon.

Kegels may help strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor. To do this, tighten your muscles like you are trying to hold back a bowel movement. Hold this position for 5 to 10 seconds. Release and rest. Repeat. Before you begin a kegel routine, please consult with a pelvic floor specialist.

A practice combining physical postures, meditation and breathing techniques. Yoga for those in cancer treatment tends to be low impact and gentle. Yoga can improve sleep, mood and circulation, reduce stress, and physically strengthen the body.

An ancient martial art or “moving meditation” where participants focus on deep breathing and precise posture, performing slow, graceful movements. Tai Chi is recommended to patients to reduce stress and anxiety and improve their quality of life.

A practice that encourages the “flow” of a person’s own positive energy. During a session, the practitioner gently touches or places hands above the patient’s body. This may help reduce pain, stress, and anxiety.

The practice of bringing awareness to the present moment by focusing on the breath, bodily sensations or repetition of a word or phrase. Meditation can reduce anxiety, depression and stress and improve your quality of life.

There are many types of massage. Generally, it is described as rubbing/kneading of muscles and joints and is practiced to relieve tension or pain. For cancer patients, massage uses a gentler approach and has many benefits such as improved sleep and immune function, reduced anxiety, pain, fatigue, and nausea.

A technique that redirects and relaxes the mind by focusing on an image or idea that is peaceful, safe, and secure. Imagery can reduce feelings of depression, help lower blood pressure, and heart rate.

Involves applying pressure to specific areas on the feet said to correspond to different body parts to reduce pain, stress, and anxiety.

Use of plants to treat illness and promote health. There are numerous herbal supplements available over the counter, and their efficacy may or may not be supported by research and empirical evidence. Regardless, it is crucial that you speak to your physician before starting any herbal supplement routine, as they may interact negatively with your prescribed treatments. Common supplements include, but are not limited to: St. John’s Wort Ginko Biloba Saw Palmetto Goldenseal Ginseng