PICO question:

What is the effectiveness of complementary therapies in improving constipation in neonates, infants and all children up to their 18th birthday diagnosed with idiopathic constipation?
Patients/Population

Neonates (newborns), infants and all children up to their 18th birthday diagnosed with idiopathic constipation
Intervention/Exposure

Abdominal massage

Reflexology

Hypnotherapy

Osteopathy

Cranial osteopathy

Craniosacral therapy

Homeopathy

Alternative therapies

Complementary therapies

CAM therapies

Baby massage
Control

Any of previous interventions compared with each other

Laxatives
Outcomes
  • Changes in frequency of bowel movements
  • Changes in stools consistency/appearance
  • Changes in pain/difficulty on passing stools
  • Changes in frequency of episodes of soiling
  • Reduction in laxatives use
  • Parent/child views/satisfaction or Quality of Life

From: Appendix I, Search Strategies

Cover of Constipation in Children and Young People
Constipation in Children and Young People: Diagnosis and Management of Idiopathic Childhood Constipation in Primary and Secondary Care.
NICE Clinical Guidelines, No. 99.
National Collaborating Centre for Women's and Children's Health (UK).
London: RCOG Press; 2010.
Copyright © 2010, National Collaborating Centre for Women's and Children's Health.

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