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Proper Positioning and a 6" Footstep for Hemorrhoid Relief

| Modified on Oct 11, 2024
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Hemorrhoids are a common condition that can cause discomfort, pain, and difficulty during bowel movements. One effective, non-invasive way to alleviate these symptoms is through proper positioning and the use of a 6" footstep while using the toilet. This simple technique can help ease the strain on the rectal area and promote healthier bowel movements.

Why Positioning Matters for Hemorrhoids

The position of the body during bowel movements can significantly impact the ease and comfort of passing stool. The conventional sitting position often used on Western-style toilets can create an unnatural angle in the rectum, making it more difficult to pass stool and potentially exacerbating hemorrhoid symptoms. This strain can lead to pain, swelling, and further irritation of hemorrhoidal tissues.

The Benefits of Using a 6" Footstep

Using a 6" footstep, such as a small stool or block, can help mimic a squatting position, which is more natural for the human body. This positioning change offers several benefits:

Improved Bowel Movement: Elevating the feet on a 6" footstep helps straighten the rectum, allowing for easier and more complete evacuation of the bowels. This can reduce the strain and pressure that contribute to hemorrhoid discomfort.

Reduced Strain: By adopting a squatting-like position, the abdominal muscles can work more effectively, reducing the need to strain during bowel movements. This can prevent the worsening of hemorrhoid symptoms and promote healing.

Comfort and Relief: Proper positioning can alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with hemorrhoids, making bowel movements more comfortable and less stressful.

How to Use a 6" Footstep Correctly

To use a 6" footstep effectively, follow these simple steps:

  1. Place the footstep in front of the toilet.
  2. While sitting on the toilet, rest your feet on the footstep. Your knees should be higher than your hips, creating a slight squatting position.
  3. Relax and allow your body to naturally facilitate bowel movement without excessive straining.

Precautions and Considerations

While using a footstep is generally safe, it may take some time to adjust to the new position. Individuals with certain mobility issues or balance concerns should take extra care to ensure safety. As always, consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns or underlying health conditions.

In conclusion, proper positioning and the use of a 6" footstep offer a simple and effective way to manage hemorrhoid symptoms. This method promotes healthier bowel movements, reduces strain, and alleviates discomfort.

Continue reading for feedback from our readers who have tried this natural remedy!

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5 User Reviews

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Posted by Anonymous (Luxemburg) on 06/28/2016
 ★★★★★

Just sharing a suggestion based own experience thought I can't be totally sure about the cause. I've been hemorrhoid free for a month or so, no swelling anymore. Can't be sure whether the hemorrhoid just went inside or really shrank away. At least it hasn't been there causing annoyance although I lived a normal life.

What I did was: squat sitting at toilet, and no toilet paper, just warm water with shower and drying with a towel. Western style toilets are bad for squat sitting but it is still possible. Just be careful. Use some proper consideration before trying in order to avoid any accidents.

Proper Positioning
Posted by Gaetano (St. Louis, Missouri, Us) on 02/04/2013
 ★★★★★

The 6" step to allow squatting on the toilet is what seems to work best for me. I'm 19 and my first hemorrhoid appeared two months ago: small protrusion from the anus that retracted within days. The itchiness and minor swelling persisted though. Sitting was uncomfortable and pretty much throughout the whole day my bum was itchy or irritated. I never saw a proper doctor, but from talking to my dad (an ob/gyn) determined it was probably a small internal one. I tried the garlic suppositories (5 days), Candida Cleanse diet (5 days only eating vegetables; didn't do the detox drinks or other supplements), Apple Cider Vinegar, Witch Hazel Wipes, and generic hemorrhoid cream, but nothing seamed to work effectively (though the garlic suppositories did make bowel movements much easier with no straining).

I started using the 6 inch step (two shoeboxes for my tall toilet) and the irritation and itching have declined significantly. Now only a few times per day do I even take notice of any irritation and it is minor and goes away if I don't think about it.

It is more natural for us to squat when defecating. It loosens the muscle in the colon that controls continence and allows an open path for stool with less straining. Non-western countries where squatting is the norm have very low rates of hemorrhoids (compared to America where more than half the population will have them at some point).

Of course a healthy diet and exercise have been shown (more empirically than squatting) to increase ease of bowel movements and prevention of hemorrhoids, but the 6" step is probably the most efficient way of alleviating hemorrhoids.

Google 'squatty potty' or 'slate don't just sit there' for some informational videos/articles on the subject.

Proper Positioning
Posted by Elizabeth (Jacksonville, NC) on 01/17/2009
 ★★★★★

to avoid straining that produces hemerrhoids, I lean forward on the toilet with "elbows on knees". Some people raise their feet with a 6" stool but "elbows on knees" works the same and your body will naturally bring the movement forth, with no straining on your part. Try it at any time.

If you are constipated, you may need to wait a little while for it to get working. It is the natural position for a bowl movement, like squatting.

Teach "elbows on knees" to your children. Get off the couch and eat whole grains and other fiber.

Proper Positioning
Posted by Heather (Corpus Christi, Texas) on 06/19/2007
 ★★★★★

I have been plauged for years with hemmroids. I read in an Ayurveda book about propping the legs, so I started keeping a 6" footstool (cheap plantstand purchased in a craft store) by the toilet. I put it in front of the toilet and put my feet on it, and it has given me great relief from hemmroids over the last six months I've been using it.

Proper Positioning
Posted by Nick (Tasmania, Australia) on 08/13/2006
 ★★★★★

A 6 inch step in front of my toilet bowl to raise my knees while seated on toilet. Passing a motion. It reduces Hemorrhoids and assists with your bowel motions. Saw this a long time ago. Theory is your system works easier with knees raised, as your bowels inside are less restricted in flow. Like Asian squat type toilets. It works. Made a small wooden raised stand. We move to side when not in use..Wife and I used it for 5 years so far and both recommend it. To try idea, at first get eg 2 house bricks. Whist seated on toilet put both feet on one in front. Your knees raise and your "flow" is easier.



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