LAUSR

METHODS: Thirty stroke survivors met the eligibility criteria and were randomly allocated to an experimental group and control group. Both groups were submitted to conventional physical therapy to rehabilitate the functional sequelae caused by the stroke. The experimental group was also submitted to a visceral manipulation approach (sphincter inhibition and mobilization of the large intestine), whereas the control group was submitted to a sham procedure (superficial touching over the intestines). Evaluations were conducted prior to the intervention, immediately after the first intervention session and one week after the end of the five sessions. The intestinal symptoms rating scale was administered during the pre-intervention evaluation and one week after the end of the intervention.