Pelvic floor muscle training is better than hypopressive exercises in pelvic organ prolapse treatment: An assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial.

AIMS: To verify if hypopressive exercises (HEs) can improve pelvic organ prolapse (POP) symptoms equally or better than pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT). METHODS: Randomized controlled trial. Symptomatic women with untreated stage II POP according to the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification System (POP-Q) having the ability to contract their pelvic floor muscles were invited. The outcome measures were POP symptoms as measured by specific questions and Prolapse Quality of Life (P-QoL); POP severity as measured by POP-Q; and PFM function. Intervention consisted by 12 weeks of PFMT or an HE home exercise program with bimonthly sessions with a physiotherapist. The protocol consisted of three initial sessions to learn how to perform the exercises correctly, followed by 3 months of exercise with monthly progression. Volunteers filled out exercise diaries to record their compliance. RESULTS: PFMT presented better results in terms of the following symptoms: a bulge/lump from or in the vagina, heaviness or dragging on the lower abdomen, and stress incontinence. PFMT also presented better results regarding the Prolapse impact and role, social and personal limitations of P-QoL. Regarding the total number of symptoms at the end, the PFMT group presented a mean of 1.7 (±1.2), and the HE group presented a mean of 2.8 (±1,1); the effect size was 1.01 in favor of the PFMT group (95%CI = 1.002-1.021). CONCLUSION: Both groups exhibited improvements in POP symptoms, quality of life, prolapse severity, and PFM function. PFMT was superior to HE for all outcomes.

Outpatient biofeedback in addition to home pelvic floor muscle training for stress urinary incontinence: a randomized controlled trial.

AIMS: To test if biofeedback (BF) added to pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) increases the frequency of home exercises performed by women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI). METHODS: 72 incontinent women were randomized to BF (outpatient BF + home PFMT) or PFMT (outpatient PFMT + home PFMT) groups. ASSESSMENTS: baseline, after 3 months of supervised treatment, at 9-month follow-up (after six additional months of home PFMT only). PRIMARY OUTCOME: frequency of monthly exercises sets performed (exercise diary) after 3-month treatment. SECONDARY OUTCOMES: adherence, urinary symptoms, severity and cure of SUI (pad test <2 g leakage), muscle function, quality of life, and subject cure (satisfaction report with no desire for different treatment) at the two time-points. STATISTICAL ANALYSES: ANOVA and Student's t-test with 5% cut-off for significance. RESULTS: It was observed similar frequency of monthly home exercises sets performed by BF (67.9 out of 82) and PFMT (68.2 out of 82) groups at 3 months. Secondarily, equal satisfaction, but superior objective cure of SUI for BF group after 3-month treatment (P = 0.018; OR: 3.15 [95% CI: 1.20-8.25]). At 9-month follow-up, the adherence to home exercises was similar (around 50%) and significantly dropped in both groups compared to the 3-month results (around 85%). No difference was detected in the objective and subjective cure of SUI between the groups after 9 months. Both therapies similarly improved the muscle function and quality of life during the study (P < 0.005). CONCLUSIONS: Adjunct BF did not increase the frequency of home exercises performed by SUI patients.

Correlation between maximum voluntary contraction and endurance measured by digital palpation and manometry: An observational study.

INTRODUCTION:: Digital palpation and manometry are methods that can provide information regarding maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) and endurance of the pelvic floor muscles (PFM), and a strong correlation between these variables can be expected. OBJECTIVE:: To investigate the correlation between MVC and endurance, measured by digital palpation and manometry. METHOD:: Forty-two women, with mean age of 58.1 years (±10.2), and predominant symptoms of stress urinary incontinence (SUI), were included. Examination was firstly conducted by digital palpation and subsequently using a Peritron manometer. MVC was measured using a 0-5 score, based on the Oxford Grading Scale. Endurance was assessed based on the PERFECT scheme. RESULTS:: We found a significant positive correlation between the MVC measured by digital palpation and the peak manometric pressure (r=0.579, p<0.001), and between the measurements of the endurance by Peritron manometer and the PERFECT assessment scheme (r=0.559, P<0.001). CONCLUSION:: Our results revealed a positive and significant correlation between the capacity and maintenance of PFM contraction using digital and manometer evaluations in women with predominant symptoms of SUI.

Correlation between maximum voluntary contraction and endurance measured by digital palpation and manometry: An observational study / Correlação entre contração voluntária máxima e endurance avaliados por palpação digital e manometria: um estudo observacional

Summary Introduction: Digital palpation and manometry are methods that can provide information regarding maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) and endurance of the pelvic floor muscles (PFM), and a strong correlation between these variables can be expected. Objective: To investigate the correlation between MVC and endurance, measured by digital palpation and manometry. Method: Forty-two women, with mean age of 58.1 years (±10.2), and predominant symptoms of stress urinary incontinence (SUI), were included. Examination was firstly conducted by digital palpation and subsequently using a Peritron manometer. MVC was measured using a 0-5 score, based on the Oxford Grading Scale. Endurance was assessed based on the PERFECT scheme. Results: We found a significant positive correlation between the MVC measured by digital palpation and the peak manometric pressure (r=0.579, p<0.001), and between the measurements of the endurance by Peritron manometer and the PERFECT assessment scheme (r=0.559, P<0.001). Conclusion: Our results revealed a positive and significant correlation between the capacity and maintenance of PFM contraction using digital and manometer evaluations in women with predominant symptoms of SUI.

Resumo Introdução: a palpação digital e a manometria são métodos capazes de fornecer informações sobre contração voluntária máxima (CVM) e endurance da musculatura do assoalho pélvico (MAP), e pode-se esperar uma forte correlação entre essas variáveis. Objetivo: investigar a correlação entre CVM e endurance, avaliados por palpação digital e manometria. Método: incluíram-se 42 mulheres, com idade média de 58,1 anos (±10,2) e sintomas predominantes de incontinência urinária de esforço (IUE). Realizou-se primeiramente o exame digital, seguido pela manometria (Peritron®). Mensuraram-se a CVM de acordo com a escala de Oxford (0-5 pontos) e o endurance pelo esquema PERFECT. Resultados: encontrou-se correlação positiva entre CVM mensurada por palpação digital e pressão manométrica de pico (r=0,579; p<0,001), e entre as medições do endurance avaliado pelo Peritron e o esquema PERFECT (r=0,559; p<0,001). Conclusão: os resultados revelaram correlação positiva e significativa entre a capacidade e a manutenção de contração dos MAP por meio das avaliações digital e manométrica em mulheres com IUE.

Effectiveness of adding voluntary pelvic floor muscle contraction to a Pilates exercise program: an assessor-masked randomized controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of adding voluntary pelvic floor muscle contraction (PFMC) to a Pilates exercise program in sedentary nulliparous women. METHODS: Fifty-seven healthy nulliparous and physically inactive women were randomized to a Pilates exercise program (PEP) with or without PFMC. Forty-eight women concluded this study (24 participants for each group). Each woman was evaluated before and after the PEP, by a physiotherapist and an urogynecologist (UG). Neither of the professionals was revealed to them. This physiotherapist measured their pelvic floor muscle strength by using both a perineometer (Peritron) and vaginal palpation (Oxford Scale). The UG, who performed 3D perineal ultrasound examinations, collected their data and evaluated the results for pubovisceral muscle thickness and the levator hiatus area (LA). Both professionals were blinded to the group allocation. The protocol for both groups consisted of 24 bi-weekly 1-h individual sessions of Pilates exercises, developed by another physiotherapist who specializes in PFM rehabilitation and the Pilates technique. RESULTS: The PEP+ PFMC group showed significantly greater strength improvements than the PEP group when comparing the Oxford scale, vaginal pressure and pubovisceral muscle thickness during contraction measurements at baseline and post-treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that adding a voluntary PFMC to a Pilates exercise program is more effective than Pilates alone in improving PFM strength in sedentary nulliparous women.

Efeito da adição do biofeedback ao treinamento dos músculos do assoalho pélvico para tratamento da incontinência urinária de esforço / Effect the adding of biofeedback to the training of the pelvic floor muscles to treatment of stress urinary incontinence

OBJETIVO: Verificar o efeito da adição do biofeedback (BF) ao treinamento dos músculos do assoalho pélvico (TMAP) para o tratamento da incontinência urinária de esforço (IUE). MÉTODOS: Estudo piloto prospectivo, randomizado e controlado, com mulheres com IUE sem deficiência esfincteriana detectada ao estudo urodinâmico e que realizavam a correta contração dos MAP. Foram excluídas mulheres com doenças neuromusculares e com prolapso genital graus III e IV. Foram randomizadas 40 mulheres em Grupo Controle e Grupo BF. O protocolo de TMAP com equipamento de BF foi constituído de três séries de dez contrações lentas (tônicas), com tempo de manutenção de seis a oito segundos em cada contração, seguido de um período de repouso de mesmo valor. Após cada contração sustentada, eram realizadas de três a quatro contrações rápidas (fásicas) em decúbito dorsal e ortostatismo, duas vezes na semana, totalizando 12 sessões. Avaliou-se o efeito da adição do BF ao TMAP na qualidade de vida pelo King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ), nos sintomas urinários pelo diário miccional e na função dos músculos do assoalho pélvico (MAP) pela palpação digital. A avaliação foi realizada inicialmente e após as 12 sessões de tratamento. O resultado foi descrito em médias e desvios padrão. Para análise de homogeneidade e verificação das diferenças entre os grupos utilizou-se o teste de Mann-Whitney, e para diferenças entre os momentos de observação, o teste de Wilcoxon, com nível de significância de 0,05. RESULTADOS: Diminuição significativa nos escores dos domínios avaliados pelo KHQ na comparação entre os grupos, exceto para o domínio saúde geral (Grupo BF 32,8±26,9 versus Grupo Controle 48,4±29,5; p<0,13). Em concordância, observou-se melhora da função dos MAP após o tratamento no grupo BF, na power (4,3±0,8; p=0,001), endurance (6,0±2,2; p<0,001) e fast (9,3±1,9; p=0,001). Quando comparados os grupos, o Grupo BF destacou-se positivamente em relação ao power (Grupo BF 4,3±0,8 versus Grupo Controle 2,5±0,9; p<0,001), endurance (Grupo BF 6,0±2,2 versus Grupo Controle 2,7±1,9; p<0,001) e fast (Grupo BF 9,3±1,9 versus Grupo Controle 4,6±3,2; p<0,001). Redução da frequência urinária noturna (1,2±1,2 versus 0,7±0,9; p=0,02) e da perda de urina nos esforços (1,5±1,4 versus 0,6±0,8; p=0,001) foi observada no Grupo BF. CONCLUSÃO: A adição do BF ao TMAP para o tratamento da IUE, aplicado de acordo com o protocolo descrito, contribui para melhora da função dos MAP, redução dos sintomas urinários e melhora da qualidade de vida.

PURPOSE: To investigate the effect of adding biofeedback (BF) to the training of pelvic floor muscles (PFMT) for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). METHODS: A prospective pilot study, randomized and controlled with women with SUI without sphincter deficiency, detected by urodynamic study and who performed the correct PFM contraction. Women with neuromuscular disorders and grade III and IV genital prolapse were excluded. Forty women were randomized into a Control Group and BF Group. The PFMT protocol with BF equipment consisted of three sets of ten slow contractions (tonic), with a holding time of six to eight seconds at each contraction followed by a rest period of equal duration. After each sustained contraction, they performed three to four fast contractions (phasic) in the supine and standing position twice a week, for a total of 12 sessions. We evaluated the effect of adding BF to PFMT on quality of life using King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ) regarding urinary symptoms based on a voiding diary and regarding the function of pelvic floor muscles by digital palpation. The evaluation was performed initially and after 12 treatment sessions. Data are reported as mean and standard deviation. The Mann-Whitney test was used for the analysis of homogeneity and to determine differences between groups, and the Wilcoxon test was used to determine possible differences between the times of observation, with the level of significance set at 0.05. RESULTS: A significant decrease in the scores of the domains assessed by the KHQ was observed in the comparison between groups, except for the general health domain (BF Group: 32.8±26.9 versus Control Group: 48.4±29.5, p<0.13). Accordingly, there was improvement in PFM function after treatment in the BF Group, regarding power (4.3±0.8, p= 0.001), endurance (6.0±2.2, p<0.001) and fast (9.3±1.9, p=0.001). When comparing the groups, the BF Group showed a positive result regarding power (BF Group 4.3±0.8 versus Control Group 2.5±0.9, p<0.001), endurance (6.0±2.2 BF Group versus Control Group 2.7±1.9, p<0.001) and fast (BF Group 9.3±1.9 versus Control Group 4.6 ± 3.2, p<0.001). Reduction of nocturnal urinary frequency (1.2±1.2 versus 0.7±0.9, p=0.02) and of effort urine loss (1.5±1.4 versus 0.6±0.8, p=0.001) was observed in the BF Group. CONCLUSION: The addition of BF to the PFMT for the treatment of SUI, applied according to the protocol described, improved PFM function, reduced urinary symptoms, and improved of the quality of life.

Impact of pelvic floor muscle training on the quality of life in women with urinary incontinence.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of pelvic floor muscle (PFM) training on the quality of life (QOL) in women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI). METHODS: Prospective clinical trial with 36 women with a diagnosis of SUI confirmed by urodynamic study. Women with neuromuscular diseases, using hormone replacement therapy, and with prolapse stage III and IV were not included. The exercise protocol for the PFM consisted of slow contractions (tonic fibers), followed by rapid contractions (phasic fibers) practiced in the supine, sitting, and standing positions, three times a week for a period of three months. We evaluated the impact of PFM on QOL using the King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ), a voiding diary, and digital palpation to assess the function of the PFMs during the initial evaluation and after three months of treatment. The result was described as means and standard deviations. We used the Wilcoxon test for comparison of the KHQ scores for paired samples, and the significance level was set at 0.05. RESULTS: There was a significant decrease in the mean scores of the domains assessed by the KHQ regarding the perception of health, impact of the incontinence, limitations of daily activities, physical limitations, social limitations, personal relationships, emotions, sleep/disposition, and measures of severity. In agreement with these results, significant decrease in nocturnal urinary frequency and urinary incontinence, as well as significant increase in muscle strength and endurance were observed. CONCLUSION: PFM training resulted in significant improvement in the QOL of women with SUI.

Impacto do treinamento dos músculos do assoalho pélvico na qualidade de vida em mulheres com incontinência urinária / Impact of pelvic floor muscle training on the quality of life in women with urinary incontinence

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o impacto do treinamento dos músculos do assoalho pélvico (TMAP) na qualidade de vida (QV) em mulheres com incontinência urinária de esforço (IUE). MÉTODOS: Ensaio clínico prospectivo com 36 mulheres com diagnóstico médico de IUE conrmado no estudo urodinâmico. Não foram incluídas mulheres com doenças neuromusculares, com uso de reposição hormonal e com prolapso grau III e IV. O protocolo de exercícios para os músculos do assoalho pélvico foi constituído de contrações lentas (bras tônicas), seguidas de contrações rápidas (bras fásicas), realizadas nas posições de decúbito dorsal, sentada e ortostática, três vezes na semana, por um período de três meses. Avaliou-se o impacto do TMAP na QV por meio do King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ), diário miccional e palpação digital para avaliar a função dos músculos do assoalho pélvico, durante a avaliação inicial e após os três meses de tratamento. O resultado foi descrito em médias e desvios-padrões. Utilizou-se o teste de Wilcoxon para comparação dos escores referentes ao KHQ para amostras pareadas, e adotou-se como nível de signicância o valor de 0,05. RESULTADOS: Observou-se diminuição signicativa das médias dos escores dos domínios avaliados pelos KHQ. Esses domínios consistem na percepção da saúde, impacto da incontinência, limitações das atividades diárias, limitações físicas, limitações sociais, relações pessoais, emoções, sono/disposição e também medidas de gravidade. Em concordância com esses resultados, foram observados diminuição signicativa na frequência urinária noturna e na perda urinária, bem como aumento signicativo na força e endurance muscular. CONCLUSÃO: O treinamento muscular do assoalho pélvico proporcionou melhora signicativa na QV de mulheres com IUE.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of pelvic floor muscle (PFM) training on the quality of life (QOL) in women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI). METHODS: Prospective clinical trial with 36 women with a diagnosis of SUI confirmed by urodynamic study. Women with neuromuscular diseases, using hormone replacement therapy, and with prolapse stage III and IV were not included. The exercise protocol for the PFM consisted of slow contractions (tonic fibers), followed by rapid contractions (phasic fibers) practiced in the supine, sitting, and standing positions, three times a week for a period of three months. We evaluated the impact of PFM on QOL using the King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ), a voiding diary, and digital palpation to assess the function of the PFMs during the initial evaluation and after three months of treatment. The result was described as means and standard deviations. We used the Wilcoxon test for comparison of the KHQ scores for paired samples, and the significance level was set at 0.05. RESULTS: There was a significant decrease in the mean scores of the domains assessed by the KHQ regarding the perception of health, impact of the incontinence, limitations of daily activities, physical limitations, social limitations, personal relationships, emotions, sleep/disposition, and measures of severity. In agreement with these results, significant decrease in nocturnal urinary frequency and urinary incontinence, as well as significant increase in muscle strength and endurance were observed. CONCLUSION: PFM training resulted in significant improvement in the QOL of women with SUI.

Biofeedback for the treatment of female pelvic floor muscle dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Biofeedback (BF) has been widely used in the treatment of pelvic floor dysfunctions, mainly by promoting patient learning about muscle contraction with no side effects. However, its effectiveness remains poorly understood with some studies suggesting that BF offers no advantage over the isolated pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT). The main objective of this study was to systematically review available randomized controlled trials assessing the effectiveness of BF in female pelvic floor dysfunction treatment. Trials were electronically searched and rated for quality by use of the PEDro scale (values of 0-10). Randomized controlled trials assessing the training of pelvic floor muscle (PFM) using BF in women with PFM dysfunction were selected. Outcomes were converted to a scale ranging from 0 to 100. Trials were pooled with software used to prepare and update Cochrane reviews. Results are presented as weighted mean differences with 95 % confidence intervals (CI). Twenty-two trials with 1,469 patients that analyzed BF in the treatment of urinary, anorectal, and/or sexual dysfunctions were included. PFMT alone led to a superior but not significant difference in the function of PFM when compared to PFMT with BF, by using vaginal measurement in the short and intermediate term: 9.89 (95 % CI -5.05 to 24.83) and 15.03 (95 % CI -9.71 to 39.78), respectively. We found a few and nonhomogeneous studies addressing anorectal and sexual function, which do not provide the cure rate calculations. Limitations of this review are the low quality and heterogeneity of the studies, involving the usage of distinct protocols of interventions, and various and different outcome measures. The results of this systematic review suggest that PFMT with BF is not more effective than other conservative treatments for female PFM dysfunction.

Efficacy of pelvic floor muscle training and hypopressive exercises for treating pelvic organ prolapse in women: randomized controlled trial.

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Previous studies have shown that women with pelvic floor dysfunctions present decreased cross-sectional area (CSA) of the levator ani muscle. One way to assess the effects of training programs is to measure the CSA of the muscle, using ultrasonography. The aim here was to evaluate the efficacy of pelvic floor muscle training and hypopressive exercises for increasing the CSA of the levator ani muscle in women with pelvic organ prolapse. DESIGN AND SETTING: Prospective randomized controlled trial at the Urogynecology outpatient clinic of Universidade Federal de São Paulo. METHODS: Fifty-eight women with stage II pelvic organ prolapse were divided into three groups for physiotherapy: a pelvic floor muscle training group (GI); a hypopressive exercise group (GII); and a control group (GIII). The patients underwent transperineal ultrasonographic evaluation using a transducer of frequency 4-9 MHz. The (CSA) of the levator ani muscle was measured before physiotherapy and after 12 weeks of treatment. RESULTS: The groups were homogeneous regarding age, number of pregnancies, number of vaginal deliveries, body mass index and hormonal status. Statistically significant differences in CSA were found in GI and GII from before to after the treatment (P < 0.001), but not in relation to GIII (P = 0.816). CONCLUSIONS: The CSA of the levator ani muscle increased significantly with physiotherapy among the women with pelvic organ prolapse. Pelvic floor muscle training and hypopressive exercises produced similar improvements in the CSA of the levator ani muscle.

Can hypopressive exercises provide additional benefits to pelvic floor muscle training in women with pelvic organ prolapse?

AIMS: The aim of the study was to compare the effect of hypopressive exercises including pelvic floor muscle contraction, pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) alone and control on pelvic floor muscle function in women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP). METHODS: Fifty-eight women with a mean age of 55.4 (± 9.8) years old with stage II POP were randomly assigned to participate in the PFMT group, the hypopressive exercises associated with PFMT (HE + PFMT) group or the control group. Each treatment group underwent a 3-month course of treatment. The three groups received lifestyle advice regarding weight loss, constipation, coughing, and the avoidance of heavy lifting. Participants were evaluated before and after the treatment. Maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) and endurance were assessed using the Modified Oxford grading system. To evaluate muscle activation, surface electromyography (SEMG) was used. RESULTS: The two treatment group significantly increase pelvic floor muscle function as measured by MVC (P < 0.001) using the Modified Oxford grading system, as well as muscle activation (P < 0.001), measured by SEMG. The PFMT group was superior regarding endurance (P = 0.007). Both groups were superior to the control group regarding MVC, endurance and muscle activation. CONCLUSION: Adding hypopressive exercises to PFMT does not improve PFM function. Both treatment groups performed better than the control group.

[Effect the adding of biofeedback to the training of the pelvic floor muscles to treatment of stress urinary incontinence]. / Efeito da adição do biofeedback ao treinamento dos músculos do assoalho pélvico para tratamento da incontinência urinária de esforço.

PURPOSE: To investigate the effect of adding biofeedback (BF) to the training of pelvic floor muscles (PFMT) for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). METHODS: A prospective pilot study, randomized and controlled with women with SUI without sphincter deficiency, detected by urodynamic study and who performed the correct PFM contraction. Women with neuromuscular disorders and grade III and IV genital prolapse were excluded. Forty women were randomized into a CONTROL GROUP and BF Group. The PFMT protocol with BF equipment consisted of three sets of ten slow contractions (tonic), with a holding time of six to eight seconds at each contraction followed by a rest period of equal duration. After each sustained contraction, they performed three to four fast contractions (phasic) in the supine and standing position twice a week, for a total of 12 sessions. We evaluated the effect of adding BF to PFMT on quality of life using King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ) regarding urinary symptoms based on a voiding diary and regarding the function of pelvic floor muscles by digital palpation. The evaluation was performed initially and after 12 treatment sessions. Data are reported as mean and standard deviation. The Mann-Whitney test was used for the analysis of homogeneity and to determine differences between groups, and the Wilcoxon test was used to determine possible differences between the times of observation, with the level of significance set at 0.05. RESULTS: A significant decrease in the scores of the domains assessed by the KHQ was observed in the comparison between groups, except for the general health domain (BF Group: 32.8 ± 26.9 versus CONTROL GROUP: 48.4 ± 29.5, p<0.13). Accordingly, there was improvement in PFM function after treatment in the BF Group, regarding power (4.3 ± 0.8, p= 0.001), endurance (6.0 ± 2.2, p<0.001) and fast (9.3 ± 1.9, p=0.001). When comparing the groups, the BF Group showed a positive result regarding power (BF Group 4.3 ± 0.8 versus CONTROL GROUP 2.5 ± 0.9, p<0.001), endurance (6.0 ± 2.2 BF Group versus CONTROL GROUP 2.7 ± 1.9, p<0.001) and fast (BF Group 9.3 ± 1.9 versus CONTROL GROUP 4.6 ± 3.2, p<0.001). Reduction of nocturnal urinary frequency (1.2 ± 1.2 versus 0.7 ± 0.9, p=0.02) and of effort urine loss (1.5 ± 1.4 versus 0.6 ± 0.8, p=0.001) was observed in the BF Group. CONCLUSION: The addition of BF to the PFMT for the treatment of SUI, applied according to the protocol described, improved PFM function, reduced urinary symptoms, and improved of the quality of life.

Efficacy of pelvic floor muscle training and hypopressive exercises for treating pelvic organ prolapse in women: randomized controlled trial / Eficácia do treinamento da musculatura do assoalho pélvico e de exercícios hipopressivos para o tratamento do prolapso de órgãos pélvicos em mulheres: ensaio clínico randomizado

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Previous studies have shown that women with pelvic floor dysfunctions present decreased cross-sectional area (CSA) of the levator ani muscle. One way to assess the effects of training programs is to measure the CSA of the muscle, using ultrasonography. The aim here was to evaluate the efficacy of pelvic floor muscle training and hypopressive exercises for increasing the CSA of the levator ani muscle in women with pelvic organ prolapse. DESIGN AND SETTING: Prospective randomized controlled trial at the Urogynecology outpatient clinic of Universidade Federal de São Paulo. METHODS: Fifty-eight women with stage II pelvic organ prolapse were divided into three groups for physiotherapy: a pelvic floor muscle training group (GI); a hypopressive exercise group (GII); and a control group (GIII). The patients underwent transperineal ultrasonographic evaluation using a transducer of frequency 4-9 MHz. The (CSA) of the levator ani muscle was measured before physiotherapy and after 12 weeks of treatment. RESULTS: The groups were homogeneous regarding age, number of pregnancies, number of vaginal deliveries, body mass index and hormonal status. Statistically significant differences in CSA were found in GI and GII from before to after the treatment (P < 0.001), but not in relation to GIII (P = 0.816). CONCLUSIONS: The CSA of the levator ani muscle increased significantly with physiotherapy among the women with pelvic organ prolapse. Pelvic floor muscle training and hypopressive exercises produced similar improvements in the CSA of the levator ani muscle.

CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: Estudos anteriores mostraram que mulheres com disfunção do assoalho pélvico possuem diminuição da área de secção transversal (AST) do músculo levantador do ânus. Uma forma de avaliar os efeitos de um programa de treinamento é mensurar a AST do músculo por ultrassonografia. O objetivo foi avaliar a eficácia do treinamento da musculatura do assoalho pélvico e de exercícios hipopressivos no aumento da AST do músculo levantador do ânus em mulheres com prolapso de órgãos pélvicos. TIPO DE ESTUDO E LOCAL: Estudo prospectivo, randomizado e controlado realizado no Ambulatório de Uroginecologia da Universidade Federal de São Paulo. MÉTODOS: Cinquenta e oito mulheres com prolapso de órgãos pélvicos estádio II foram divididas em três grupos para tratamento fisioterapêutico: (GI) grupo de treinamento dos músculos do assoalho pélvico, (GII) grupo de exercícios hipopressivos e (GIII) grupo controle. As pacientes se submeteram a avaliação ultrassonográfica transperineal com transdutor de frequência 4-9 MHz. Foi mensurada a AST do músculo levantador do ânus antes e após 12 semanas de tratamento fisioterapêutico. RESULTADOS: Os grupos foram homogêneos no que se refere a idade, número de gestações, número de partos vaginais, índice de massa corpórea e estado hormonal. Diferença significante foi observada na AST de GI e GII antes e após o tratamento (P < 0,001) e isso não ocorreu com o GIII (P = 0,816). CONCLUSÕES: A AST do músculo levantador do ânus aumentou significativamente com tratamento fisioterapêutico em mulheres com prolapso de órgãos pélvicos. Treinamento dos músculos do assoalho pélvico e exercícios hipopressivos são semelhantes no que se refere ao aumento da AST do músculo levantador do ânus.

Ginástica hipopressiva: as evidências de uma alternativaao treinamento da musculatura do assoalho pélvicode mulheres com déficit proprioceptivo local / Hipopressive gymnastics: evidences for an alternative training for women with local proprioceptive deficit of the pelvic floor muscles

Apesar de a cinesioterapia para o assoalho pélvico fazer parte dopadrão áureo para o tratamento das disfunções do assoalho pélvico,um terço das mulheres apresenta dificuldade de identificação daquelamusculatura o que tolhe o início do tratamento. A ginásticahipopressiva é técnica recente que promete contração reflexa damusculatura do assoalho pélvico, mas é parca a evidência a este respeito.Métodos: Organização da evidência, especialmente por examesde imagem e eletromiografia, publicada até o momento. Resultados:A ginástica hipopressiva provoca momento cranial das vísceras, oque pode ser observado por ultrassonografia, ressonância magnéticae observação direta via espéculo. A eletromiografia durante a manobrasugere ativação reflexa da musculatura do assoalho pélvico.Conclusão: A ginástica hipopressiva age no assoalho pélvico, e podeser utilizada como técnica adjuvante para o despertar proprioceptivoda musculatura local...

Although pelvic floor kinesiotherapy is, today, part of the goldstandard for the treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction, one-thirdof women have local proprioceptive difficulty, what hinders theinitiation of treatment. The hipopressive gymnastic is a new techniquethat promises reflex contraction of the pelvic floor muscles,but the evidence is sparse. Methods: Organizing the evidence, especiallyfor imaging and electromyography, published so far. Results:Hipopressive gymnastics causes cranial momentum of the pelvicorgans, which can be seen by ultrasound, magnetic resonance anddirect observation by speculum. Electromyography suggests reflexactivation of the pelvic floor muscles. Conclusion: Hipopressivegymnastics acts on the pelvic floor, and can be used as an adjuvanttechnique for the proprioceptive awakening of pelvic floor muscle...

Ginástica hipopressiva como recurso proprioceptivo para os músculos do assoalho pélvico de mulheres incontinentes / Hypopressive gymnastics as resource for perineal proprioception in women with urinary incontinence

Introdução: Está amplamente descrito na literatura que as mulheres com e sem disfunção do assoalho pélvico apresentam grande dificuldade em realizar a contração adequada dos músculos perineais.A Ginástica Hipopressiva poderia facilitar o entendimento da correta contração uma vez que supostamente promove contração reflexa dos músculos do assoalho pélvico (MAP) durante sua realização.Objetivo: Avaliar a função dos MAP antes e após protocolo de exercícios hipopressivos para melhora da propriocepção perineal em mulheres com incontinência urinária de esforço (IUE). Métodos:Foram incluídas 14 mulheres com IUE que se submeteram a protocolo de três sessões individuais, com conteúdo padronizado,que incluiu o aprendizado dos exercícios hipopressivos em etapas.Após este período de aprendizado, as pacientes se submeteram a12 semanas de exercícios domiciliares, com sessões mensais com o fisioterapeuta. A cada sessão, as pacientes apresentavam diário de exercícios preenchido para mensuração da aderência ao tratamento.A função dos MAP foi mensurada antes e após o tratamento por meio de palpação bidigital, utilizando-se a escada de Oxford, o endurance muscular e o número de contrações rápidas. Resultados:Houve melhora em todos os parâmetros de função muscular avaliados:Oxford (p = 0,0005); endurance (p = 0,0001) e número de contrações rápidas (p < 0,0001). Conclusão: Houve aumento da função muscular do assoalho pélvico após prática de exercícios hipopressivos para melhora da propriocepção perineal.

Introduction: It is widely reported in the literature that womenwith and without pelvic floor dysfunction have great difficulty inperforming adequate contraction of the perineal muscles. Hypopressive Gymnastics could facilitate the correct understanding ofcontraction since that supposedly promotes reflex contraction of thepelvic floor muscles (PFM) during its implementation. Objective: Toevaluate the function of PFM before and after hypopressive exercise protocol to improve perineal proprioception in women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Methods: Were included 14 women with SUI who underwent a protocol of 3 individual sessions with standardized content, which included learning of the hypopressive exercises in stages. After this learning period, patients underwent12 weeks of home exercise, with monthly sessions with the physiotherapist.At each session, the patients presented daily exercisesjournal to measure adherence. The role of PFM was measuredbefore and after treatment by bidigital palpation, using the Oxfordscale, muscular endurance and the number of rapid contractions. Results: Was observed improvement in all evaluated parameters of muscle function: Oxford (p = 0.0005), endurance (p = 0.0001)and number of rapid contractions (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: Wasobserved increased pelvic floor muscle function after hypopressive exercise for improving perineal proprioception.

Pelvic floor muscle and transversus abdominis activation in abdominal hypopressive technique through surface electromyography.

AIMS: The abdominal hypopressive technique (AHT) is performed mainly via transversus abdominis (TrA) activation and has been indicated for pelvic floor muscle (PFM) disorders. In some European countries, this technique has become widely used. This study aimed to investigate PFM and TrA activation during the AHT through surface electromyography. METHODS: Thirty-four nulliparous physical therapists in good general health were asked to participate in the trial. To ascertain a correct PFM contraction, each of the participants was assessed by inspection and digital palpation. Ability to contract the TrA was assessed by surface electromyography and AHT training was given before analysis. TrA and PFM activity was recorded using surface electromyography. RESULTS: The mean age of the volunteers was 28.1 (±6.0) years and the mean body mass index was 23.7 (±3.3) kg/m(2) . More than half of the volunteers were physically active (61.3%) and regularly performed PFM training (52.9%) but not TrA exercises (58.8%). Although the AHT activates the PFM when compared to resting tone (P < 0.001), this method is significantly less effective than PFM alone (P < 0.001). Additionally, the combination of the two techniques (AHT + PFM) was similarly effective as isolated PFM contraction (P = 0.586). Although the AHT activated the TrA significantly more than did PFM alone (P = 0.002), the addition of PFM contraction to the AHT significantly increased the amount of TrA activation (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Based on our results, the AHT is less effective than PFM contraction alone, and adding PFM contraction to AHT also improves the TrA contraction.

Impacto do tratamento do câncer de colo uterino no assoalho pélvico / Impact of treatment of cervical cancer in the pelvic floor

O câncer de colo uterino se apresenta como a segunda neoplasia maligna mais comum entre as mulheres no mundo. Seu tratamento consiste principalmente por histerectomia radical e dissecção dos linfonodos pélvicos, associada à quimioterapia e radioterapia nos estágios mais avançados da doença. Em consequência deste tratamento, podem aparecer as disfunções dos músculos do assoalho pélvico, principalmente por lesão nervosa. Contudo, objetivou-se, nesta revisão, identificar as disfunções do assoalho pélvico após o tratamento do câncer de colo uterino. Realizou-se revisão bibliográfica de estudos publicados de 2000 a 2010 nas bases de dados Medline, PubMed, PEDro, SciELO e Lilacs. Observou-se que sintomas urinários, intestinais e sexuais estão presentes após o tratamento do câncer de colo uterino. Dentre os sintomas urinários, estão presentes a incontinência urinária de esforço, a incontinência urinária mista, sintomas relacionados à hiperatividade da bexiga, ocorrendo a urgeincontinência, o aumento da frequência urinária, a noctúria e a urgência miccional. No que tange aos sintomas sexuais, pode-se observar que dispareunia, vaginismo, diminuição e/ou falta da lubrificação vaginal, excitação e orgasmo também ocorrem após o tratamento do câncer de colo uterino. Como sintomas intestinais, ocorreram a diarreia, a constipação e a incontinência anal. A fisioterapia sabidamente trata essas disfunções, fora do contexto do câncer de colo uterino, com elevadas taxas de sucesso e, por isso, o fisioterapeuta poderia auxiliar na reabilitação após o tratamento do câncer de colo uterino, se fosse inserido na equipe. Assim, torna-se cada vez mais importante a inclusão deste profissional nas equipes multidisciplinares

The cervical cancer appears as the second most common neoplasm malignancy among women worldwide. Its treatment consists mainly on radical hysterectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection, associated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy in advanced stages of the disease. As a result of this treatment, dysfunctions of the pelvic floor muscles, mainly for nerve injury, may appear. However, the purpose was to identify the pelvic floor dysfunctions after treatment of cervical cancer. We conducted a literature review of studies published from 2000 to 2010 in Medline, PubMed, PEDro, SciELO, and Lilacs. It was observed that urinary, bowel, and sexual symptoms are present after treatment of the cervical cancer. Among the urinary symptoms, the following are present: stress urinary incontinence, mixed urinary incontinence, symptoms of overactive bladder, urge-incontinence, increased urinary frequency, nocturia, and urgency. With respect to sexual symptoms, dyspareunia, vaginismus, reduced and/or lack of vaginal lubrication, arousal and orgasm also occur after treatment of cervical cancer. As intestinal symptoms, there were diarrhea, constipation, and anal incontinence. Physical therapy successfully treats these disorders, outside the context of the cervical cancer, with high success rates, and, therefore, the therapist could help in the rehabilitation after treatment of the cervical cancer, if he/she was inserted in the team. Thus, it becomes increasingly important to include this professional in multidisciplinary teams

O prolapso genital associado à incontinência urinária de esforço altera a função muscular do assoalho pélvico? / The association between pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence changes the pelvic fl oor muscle function?

Prolapso genital é defi nido como deslocamento dasvísceras pélvicas em sentido caudal. Trata-se de afecção comum,especialmente em mulheres menopausadas e, não obstante, podeestar associado à incontinência urinária de esforço (IUE). Estudosmostram que mulheres com prolapso genital possuem funçãomuscular do assoalho pélvico diminuída. Objetivo: Verifi car se hádiferença entre a função dos músculos do assoalho pélvico (MAP)de mulheres incontinentes com ou sem prolapso genital. Métodos:Participaram dessa pesquisa 24 voluntárias divididas em dois grupos,a saber: Grupo I composto por 12 mulheres com IUE associada aoprolapso genital; e Grupo II, composto por 12 mulheres com IUEe sem prolapso genital associado. Avaliou-se a função dos MAP pormeio de palpação bidigital, utilizando-se as escalas de AvaliaçãoFuncional do Assoalho Pélvico (AFA) e Oxford, teste de tempomáximo de contração (endurance) e exame com perineômetro. Paraa análise estatística, utilizou-se o test t de Student, para comparar asmédias obtidas e o nível de signifi cância. Resultados: as mulheres comprolapso genital associado apresentaram menor AFA (p = 0,043),Oxford (p = 0,043) e tempo de sustentação da contração mensuradopelo perineômetro (p = 0,044). Conclusão: mulheres incontinentescom prolapso genital apresentam menor função muscular e menortempo de sustentação da contração...

Pelvic organ prolapse is defi ned as pelvic viscera displacementin caudal direction. In menopausal women is particularlycommon and it can be associated with stress urinary incontinence(SIU). Studies show that in women with pelvic organ prolapse,the pelvic fl oor muscle (PFM) function loses strength. Aim: Toverify if there is any diff erence between the function of the pelvicfl oor muscles (PFM) of incontinent women with or without pelvicorgan prolapse. Methods: Twenty four patients were divided intotwo groups: Group I with 12 women with SUI and Group II, with12 women with SUI associated with pelvic organ prolapse. Th efunction of PFM was evaluated using bidigital palpation, measuredby Functional Pelvic Floor Evaluation (AFA) and Oxford scales,maximum time of contraction test (endurance) and perineometerexam. Regarding the statistical analysis, the student test t was usedto compare the means and signifi cance level. Results: Women withpelvic organ prolapse associated showed lower AFA (p = 0,043),Oxford (p = 0,043) and holding contraction time measured byperineometer (p = 0,044). Conclusion: Incontinent women withpelvic organ prolapse showed lower PFM function and decrease ofmuscular endurance...

Pelvic floor muscle training for treatment of pelvic organ prolapse: an assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: This pilot study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) for the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse. METHODS: Thirty-seven women with stage II prolapse were randomized to either the intervention group (n = 21) or the control group (n = 16). The evaluation included assessments of pelvic floor muscle function and surface electromyography at baseline and post 14 weeks of treatment. The severity of prolapse was quantified by the POP-Q method and symptoms by P-QoL questionnaire. RESULTS: The intervention group showed significantly greater anatomic improvements in the anterior and posterior vaginal wall prolapses than did the control group (P < 0.001 and 0.025, respectively) and a decrease of symptoms. In addition, the intervention group had greater improvements in muscle strength (P < 0.001), endurance (P < 0.001), and electromyography parameters (P = 0.008) compared to the control group. CONCLUSIONS: PFMT is effective in the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse.

Prolapso genital e reabilitação do assoalho pélvico / Pelvic floor rehabilitation and genital prolapse

O prolapso genital é condição comum e importante indicação de cirurgia ginecológica nos dias atuais. A quantificação do prolapso é realizada por meio do POP-Q, uma classificação internacionalmente reconhecida e preconizada pela Sociedade Internacional de Continência (ICS). O suporte dos órgãos pélvicos se dá por um sistema de suspensão, constituído de ligamentos, e outro de sustentação, constituído por fáscias e músculos, especialmente o levantador do ânus, que deve estar íntegro para que possa manter perfeito suporte dos órgãos e o hiato genital fechado. A fraqueza ou defeitos nesse músculo podem levar ao aparecimento de prolapso genital. O tratamento conservador tem ganhado espaço, especialmente em estágios menos avançados do prolapso. Consiste em mudanças nos hábitos de vida diária, tais como redução de peso, diminuição das atividades que aumentam a pressão abdominal, tratamento da constipação intestinal, e intervenções físicas, como o fortalecimento da musculatura do assoalho pélvico. Este estudo constitui um levantamento das evidências científicas acerca do tratamento conservador do prolapso genital, visando proporcionar uma visão mais atual do problema

The pelvic organ prolapse is a common condition and the main cause of gynecologic surgery nowadays. The quantification of genital prolapse is performed by means of POP-Q, an international classification recognized and indicated by the International Continence Society (ICS). The support of the pelvic organs relies on a suspension system, made of ligaments, and a sustentation system, made of fascies or muscles, especially the levator ani, that should be intact in order to give a perfect support for the organs and for close genital gap. The weakness or damages in this muscle can cause genital prolapse. The nonsurgical treatment has been used more frequently, especially in early stages of the prolapse. It consists of changing daily habits, such as reducing weight, decreasing activities that raise abdominal pressure, treating intestinal constipation, and other physical interventions, such as the strengthening of the pelvic floor musculature. This study is a bibliographic evidence-based research about the conservative treatment of the genital prolapse