None listed
Conditions
Brief summary
Introduction The pelvic floor has a critical role in resisting intra-abdominal pressure and ground reaction force to maintain pelvic organ support and continence. Pelvic floor disorders (PFD), such as pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence, or pelvic floor pain may arise when this system is compromised. Performing artists are a unique population group that may be exposed to factors potentially provocative of PFD and symptoms. Pelvic floor disorders and symptoms are posited to negatively impact exercise and performance participation. The purpose of this study is to describe the prevalence, impact and factors associated with PFD in performing artists. Methods and analysis This study is a cross-sectional survey, with a proposed sample size of at least 384 performing artists. Questionnaires will be distributed to performing arts organisations (recreational, professional and schools) across Australia via REDCap and all data will be anonymised. Data will be collected on the primary outcome, prevalence of PFD, using existing validated questionnaires. Data will also be collected on the impact PFD have on performance, training, and everyday activities and what factors that may be associated with PDF and symptoms (secondary outcomes). Data will be analysed and reported as frequency and percentage for prevalence. Associated factors will be explored using binary logistic regression, and descriptive analysis will be used to report on the impact of PFD in performing artists. Ethics and dissemination The study is deemed low-risk and La Trobe University ethics approval will be sought prior to commencement. Results will be disseminated via peer-reviewed publications, presentations at national and international conferences, and summary findings will be provided to Australian performing arts organisations and companies.
Interventions
a) Participant group of interest: Australian Performing Artists (over the age of 18 years).
b) The sample will be selected via a non-probability sampling technique, recruiting through performing arts schools, and professional companies with approval from the managers or Artistic Directors. All performing artists will be invited to participate. The aim of this approach is to attract eligible participants directly. The administration team at each performing arts company will distribute the questi
a) Participant group of interest: Australian Performing Artists (over the age of 18 years). b) The sample will be selected via a non-probability sampling technique, recruiting through performing arts schools, and professional companies with approval from the managers or Artistic Directors. All performing artists will be invited to participate. The aim of this approach is to attract eligible participants directly. The administration team at each performing arts company will distribute the questionnaire to their artists via email and/or newsletter with a link to the questionnaire. The questionnaire will also be advertised through social media (Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram) to performing artists, through targeted advertising strategies using hashtags and posting in relevant groups. Interested performing artists can email the lead researcher if they have queries and the questionnaire will be able to be completed after providing informed consent, which will be embedded within the questionnaire. c) Outcomes to be assessed: Part 1: • To investigate the prevalence of pelvic floor disorders in Australian performing artists. • To identify the factors associated with the presence of pelvic floor disorders in performing artists. • To explore the impact pelvic floor disorders have on performing artists’ performance, training and everyday activities. Part 2: • To explore if there are barriers to performing artists accessing care for the management of pelvic floor disorders. These outcomes will be assessed via completion of questionnaires. d) Time commitment: Approximately 30 minutes e) The questionnaire will be completed via an online link f) Cross-sectional study
Sponsors
La Trobe University
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
All
Age
18 Years to No maximum
Healthy volunteers
Yes
Inclusion criteria
Australian performing artists from any discipline will be invited to participate in the study if they meet the inclusion criteria; be at least 18 years of age and currently training, studying, or working as a performing artist.
Exclusion criteria
Unable to complete an online questionnaire due to internet, electronic device availability or English proficiency.
Outcome results
None listed