A Simple Test of How Well the Rectal and Anal Muscles Work
Anorectal manometry is a simple, safe test that measures how well the muscles and nerves in your rectum and anus are working. A thin, flexible tube with a small balloon on the tip is gently placed in the rectum, and sensors measure muscle pressure, coordination, and sensation as you squeeze, relax, and bear down.
The test helps your doctor understand the cause of problems like chronic constipation or difficulty controlling bowel movements. It is performed in the office, takes about 30 minutes, and does not require sedation, so you can return to your normal activities right away.
Many bowel problems are caused by muscles and nerves that are not working together the way they should. Anorectal manometry gives your doctor precise information about how your pelvic floor and sphincter muscles function, which blood tests and imaging cannot show. This helps pinpoint the true cause of symptoms and guide the most effective treatment, including biofeedback therapy.
Your doctor may recommend anorectal manometry to evaluate ongoing bowel symptoms. It is commonly used for:
This test can help evaluate:
If you struggle with chronic constipation or bowel control, anorectal manometry can help find the cause and guide effective treatment. Talk with our team to learn more.
Dr. Saranya Addepally is a board-certified gastroenterologist with six years of clinical experience, treating a broad range of digestive and liver conditions. She is especially passionate about women’s GI health—areas where patients often feel overlooked or hesitant to seek care.
Her medical journey began in India, where she completed her training before moving to the United States to pursue advanced education in medicine and Gastroenterology at the University of Arkansas.
After several years in practice, she relocated to Houston to continue serving patients in the community. Following two years with a local group, she established her own practice, grounded in the principles and core values she believes are essential to delivering thoughtful, patient-centered care.
It is a simple test that measures how well the muscles and nerves in your rectum and anus work. It helps diagnose the cause of constipation and bowel control problems.
Your doctor may recommend it to find the cause of chronic constipation, difficulty with bowel control, or straining, so they can choose the most effective treatment.
No. The test is not painful. You may feel mild pressure or the urge to have a bowel movement at times, but most people find it very tolerable. No sedation is needed.
Preparation is minimal. You may be asked to use an enema beforehand to clear the lower rectum. Our team will give you simple, specific instructions.
Anorectal manometry usually takes about 30 minutes. Because there is no sedation, you can drive yourself home and return to your day right away.
Your doctor reviews the results and explains what they mean. Treatment may include dietary changes, medication, or biofeedback therapy to retrain the muscles.
Anorectal manometry is quick and comfortable, and our team makes sure you know exactly what to expect. Here is how your visit works.
At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic, we provide:
There is no single “quick fix” when it comes to your test. A short, simple test can reveal the cause of long-standing symptoms. At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic we explain each step so you feel at ease. Your visit includes:
Offering Fast Track GI appointments
Specialized Gastroenterology Appointments Within 3–5 Business Days
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