Nonoperative management of fecal incontinence.

Fecal incontinence is a significant health problem that affects quality of life. Continence may often be improved with changes in diet with or without pharmacologic treatment to optimize the consistency of stool. Biofeedback is a multifaceted therapeutic approach that helps an individual improve his or her sensitivity to rectal distention and respond with appropriate voluntary sphincter control. One or more of these techniques can be used in conjunction with education and supportive counseling to optimize an individual's continence.