The bowel is part of your digestive system, and its role is to break down what you eat and drink and expel waste products that are not required by the body. Bowel problems (e.g. constipation) are a common symptom in people with neuromuscular disorders. There are a number of reasons why the bowel may be affected. If you have ongoing problems with constipation, it is important to address these as long term chronic constipation can be difficult to manage, can cause back pain, discomfort and affect your quality of life.