Sep 29 / Guest blogger and occupational therapist, Kelsie Kavadas, OTD, OTR/L, PRPC

Bowel Health & Occupational Therapy: Why Bowel Function Matters to Daily Life

Welcome to guest blogger and OT Kelsie Kavadas, OTD, OTR/L, PRPC

Introduction

Bowel health is about so much more than having a bowel movement. Constipation, fecal incontinence, IBS, pelvic floor dysfunction, and other bowel concerns can affect nearly every part of a person's daily life—from work and exercise to parenting, travel, sleep, and social participation.


About Bowel Health & Occupational Therapy Upcoming Course

Bowel Health & Occupational Therapy is a continuing education course designed to help occupational therapy practitioners better understand bowel function and recognize the important role OT can play in supporting clients with bowel dysfunction.

In this course, we explore the anatomy and physiology of normal bowel function, common presentations such as constipation, IBS, fecal incontinence, and dyssynergic defecation, and the ways bowel dysfunction can affect a person's occupations and quality of life.

Most importantly, the course focuses on practical, evidence-based, occupation-centered interventions. Participants learn how to approach bowel health through evaluation of routines, habits, toileting mechanics, positioning, breathing, activity, environmental factors, and meaningful participation.

Because bowel dysfunction can be uncomfortable or embarrassing to discuss, clients may not always bring these concerns to their healthcare providers. OT practitioners who understand bowel health can help open that conversation, identify functional barriers, provide appropriate education and intervention, and recognize when referral to another member of the healthcare team is needed.

Whether you work in pelvic health, geriatrics, neurological rehabilitation, primary care, or general practice, understanding bowel function can add an important dimension to your clinical reasoning and occupational therapy practice.


Bowel Health is Occupational Health

Bowel health is occupational health—and there's a place for OT in the conversation.


Guest Writer

Kelsie Kavadas, OTD, OTR/L, is a dedicated Pelvic Health Occupational Therapist (PHOT) with two years of hands-on experience in transforming lives through pelvic floor rehabilitation. Kelsie is a proud alumna of the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, where she graduated in 2021, laying the foundation for her specialized expertise in pelvic health. 

In 2023, Kelsie achieved an additional milestone by obtaining her Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner Certification, showcasing her commitment to staying at the forefront of her field. Her passion lies in helping clients overcome pelvic floor dysfunction and pelvic pain, ultimately enhancing their overall quality of life. Kelsie's empathetic and patient-centered approach fosters a supportive environment for individuals seeking assistance in this sensitive area of health.

Beyond her clinical work, Kelsie is on a mission to empower fellow occupational therapists to delve deeper into pelvic health. She believes in the importance of education and aims to share her knowledge and experiences to elevate the standard of care in this specialized field. Kelsie envisions a community where occupational therapists are equipped with the skills and confidence to address pelvic health concerns effectively.

In her personal life, Kelsie is happily married and shares her home with two lovable dogs. Outside of her professional endeavors, she finds joy in crafting and cherishes moments spent with family and friends. Kelsie's holistic approach to life and work reflects her dedication not only to the well-being of her clients but also to fostering a supportive community within the occupational therapy field.

Join us to learn more about bowel health

Monday, October 18, 2026, we will be hosting a new live webinar Bowel Health and Occupational Therapy‌.  Learn to identify and support clients with bowel dysfunction. 
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