Glycerin or bisacodyl suppositories or other gentle laxatives may be used in conjunction with a bowel retraining program to establish a pattern of regular, bowel movements. Both of these conditions will require emergency surgery to remove the impaction and possibly part of the injured bowel. Dietary measures such as increasing fiber intake from whole-wheat grains, fresh fruits and vegetables and bran may help add bulk to the stool, thus promoting normal bowel movements. Special efforts should be made toward increasing the daily intake of fluids. See also diet for constipation.
Regular exercise is very important in establishing regular bowel movements.
People who are confined to a wheelchair or bed should change position frequently and perform abdominal contraction exercises and leg raises several times throughout the day. A physical therapist can recommend a program of exercises appropriate for your physical abilities. The treatment of fecal impaction is aimed at removing the fecal impaction and initiating a program to maintain normal bowel function. Often a warm mineral oil enema is used to soften and lubricate the fecal impaction. However, enemas alone are often not enough to remove a large, hardened impaction.