Effectiveness of Self-myofascial Release Combined With Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation for the Management of MFPP
Myofascial Pelvic Pain
About this trial
This is an interventional treatment trial for Myofascial Pelvic Pain
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria:
- age between 18 and 70 years;
- presence of persistent chronic pelvic pain ≥ 4 points on a 10 points numeric rating scale for at least 3 months;
- at least one active MTrP in one of muscle group including obturator internus, levator ani, piriformis, coccygeus on pelvic examination.
Exclusion Criteria:
- diseases of the urinary, genital, colorectal systems;
- prolapse of the pelvic organ;
- a history of pelvic rehabilitation within the 3 months prior to study;
- psychiatric disorders;
- pregnancy;
- breastfeeding.
Sites / Locations
- Zhongda Hospital
Arms of the Study
Arm 1
Arm 2
Experimental
Active Comparator
BES-SMFR group
BES group
Using the same Vishee neuro-muscle stimulator as the sEMG assessment with a vaginal probe was inserted into the vagina and placed close to the PFMs. Three standardized programs were used in our study: (1) Tens electricity (first program): 5 min of 50-280 Hz frequency and a pulse duration of 50 µs. (b) Endorphin electricity (second program): 5 min of 1-10 Hz frequency and a pulse duration of 200 µs. (c) Spasmolysis electricity (third program): 5 min of 1-2 Hz frequency and a pulse duration of 300 µs. At the same time, patients could learn about their neuromuscular activity through the biofeedback instrument, abdominal breathing for 5 sec was necessary when PFMs were overactive.
A standardized and structured vaginal examination was performed by digital palpation to identify pelvic floor active MTrPs, and then pain mapping was developed for the patient's use. Patients were required to participate in intensive training regarding myofascial release techniques. (I) Pressing: press directly on a specific MTrP with gentle, slow pressures (2kg/cm2) using a flat palpation, the pressure was sustained until the participant perceived the pain decreased and taut band released, and then gradually increased to previous level of MTrPs tension and maintained until a reduction of pain again. The process was usually 3 to 5 repetitions for 90 sec. (II) Stretching: stretch in parallel to the direction of the myofascial to facilitate elongation of a contracted muscle. (III) Strumming: stroking and strumming the affected muscles region with the fingertips to aid in MTrPs tension release, the initial pressure was small and increased gradually until the patients adapted.