Abstract
Background: Over the next 30 years chronic health problems associated with pelvic floor dysfunction are projected to increase by 50%.
Objective: To determine the efficacy of a noninvasive, pain-free procedure of behavioral modifications and a specialized exercise program to improve pain levels and quality of life.
Study Design: A quantitative, longitudinal study was conducted.
Methods: Forty-one women aged 43.2 +/- 9.5 years (mean +/- SD) with symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction and pelvic organ prolapse were introduced to a protocol that included eight 45-minute live group sessions and a home exercise program to be performed at least 3 times per week. The participants were reassessed after completion of the protocol intervention. IBM SPSS Version 24 statistical programming was used, and Wilcoxon nonparametric analyses were applied to compare the pre- and poststudy data to determine whether significant relief from pain and/or dysfunction occurred.
Results: The procedure significantly improved lower back pain (Oswestry, z(41) = -4.068, P < .05), quality of life as related to pelvic floor disorder symptoms (Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory Questionnaire-Short Form 20, z(41) = -5.317, P < .05), life impact of pelvic floor disorder symptoms (Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire-Short Form-7, z(41) = -3.825, P < .05), diastasis recti separation (z(41) = -4.806, P < .05), pelvic floor muscle activation (z(41) = -5.583, P < .05), and pelvic alignment (z(41) = -3.207, P < .05).
Conclusion: The noninvasive, pain-free procedure provided significant relief from symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction and lower back pain.