Bowel book for people with spinal cord injuries

“There are an estimated 11,000 people living with spinal cord injury in Australia and this increases by approximately 260 new cases annually,” Ms Bishop said during the launch of the book in Sydney. The launch was hosted by its publishers, the Royal Rehabilitation Centre.

“This is a simple, self-help approach to solving bowel problems which is a major problem for patients with spinal cord injuries, and will assist their GPs, spinal nurses and spinal clinics”

“The Australian Government provided more than $28,000 through the National Continence Management Strategy to undertake a research project and develop the booklet, Solving Common Bowel Problems, in response to the urgent needs of this group of patients,” she said.

The book is a collaborative project by the Royal Rehabilitation Centre at Ryde and the University of Western Sydney, based on the bowel diaries of spinal cord patients.

Ms Bishop said the book covers the importance of a balanced diet and highlights regular routines for patients, such as including dietary fibre in every meal, regular fluid intake, medication regimes and regular exercise.

The 24-page book will be available free-of-charge from the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66.