Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes a reaction to gluten, which is a protein in foods like wheat, rye, and barley. This immune reaction occurs in the small intestine, and can cause damage to the lining of the small intestine.

Damage to the intestinal lining affects the body’s ability to absorb nutrients, which can create other gastrointestinal problems. Celiac disease can develop at any age, and those with it may also experience symptoms that aren’t limited to the gastrointestinal system.

Although celiac disease directly influences the intestinal tract, it can also indirectly affect many other systems in the body.

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Celiac disease is a hereditary condition that is more likely to develop in people with specific gene variants. Contributors to the development of celiac are still being studied, and there is no absolute cure for it—those with celiac must eliminate gluten in their diet as the primary form of treatment.

Those with celiac typically explore other methods to manage their symptoms, as they can vary widely from person to person.

Symptoms of celiac disease can also vary between children and adults. In children, it can affect weight, growth, puberty, and overall development in many different ways. In adults, celiac can lead to the following symptoms:

Digestive Symptoms:

• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Bloating or gas
• Nausea or vomiting

Other Symptoms:

• Fatigue, or feeling tired
• Joint pain
• Headaches, balance issues, or seizures
• Osteoporosis
• Skin rashes

Most of these symptoms originate from malabsorption caused by the autoimmune disorder. For example, malabsorption can create a deficiency in calcium, vitamin D, and other vital nutrients, causing osteoporosis. Weaker bones can increase the likelihood of fractures, so it is important that those with celiac work to keep their bodies fit and healthy.

Fatigue and weakness are very common in those who have recently been diagnosed with celiac disease, but creating a proper exercise routine can help individuals build their strength, stamina, and energy.

Therefore, in addition to a gluten-free lifestyle, those with celiac disease may find additional relief and management of their symptoms through physical therapy.

Managing celiac disease involves regular visits with a doctor and monitoring your nutrition to watch for deficiencies. Ignoring symptoms and continuing to include gluten in your diet can cause worsening of your symptoms, and even more complications in the future.

Additionally, those with celiac may find it beneficial to work with a physical therapist regularly to manage their symptoms. Although it may not be the first solution you think of for managing celiac symptoms, physical therapy can be incredibly beneficial for those with autoimmune disorders. Working with a physical therapist can help you manage the following:

• Joint and Muscle Pain
• Osteoporosis
• Balance and Coordination
• Overall Fitness

Due to complications with nutrient absorption, those with celiac disease will likely experience complications with the above-mentioned symptoms. Physical therapists are highly trained and educated on many aspects of the body, including how to stay fit.

They can help an individual improve their strength, muscle coordination, flexibility, and posture, which can allow those with celiac disease to better manage symptoms of their autoimmune disorder.

Physical therapists can use a variety of treatments to help manage joint or muscle pain, while also getting your body in top shape. Similarly, they are able to help improve your balance, stability, and body mechanics through an individualized treatment and exercise program.

At Hive Therapy and Wellness, we use the following treatments to help those with celiac better manage their symptoms:

• Neuromuscular re-education
• Manual Therapy 
• Exercise Prescription
• Cupping 
• Behavioral modifications
• Therapeutic Activity
• Electrical Stimulation
• Biofeedback
• Therapeutic Modalities