Footstool in Alleviating Symptoms of Evacuation Disorder

The purpose of this research study is to compare the use of footstools of 2 different heights in patients with symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction such as straining excessively during bowel movements and a sense of incomplete emptying. We are testing these footstools to see if using a footstool can improve these symptoms. Participants who enroll will be randomly assigned to either a 7 or 9 inch footstool. They will use the footstool for 8 weeks. During this time they will complete some online surveys about their bowel symptoms.

Inclusion Criteria: Age 18 years or older Able to understand, read, and write English Evidence of pelvic floor dysfunction based on at least one of the following: Symptoms of excessive straining during bowel movements, feeling of incomplete evacuation, or need for digital evacuation of stool more than 25% of the time Abnormal anorectal manometry Abnormal balloon expulsion test Abnormal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) defecography or barium defecography Exclusion Criteria: Any physical, mental, or emotional condition that, in the opinion of the Principal Investigator, may pose a safety concern or interfere with study participation Prior use of a toilet footstool for defecation Currently pregnant, based on self-reported pregnancy status during screening Active cancer Current opioid use