None listed
Conditions
Brief summary
Pelvic floor muscles (PFM) in women play a key role, and their proper functioning depends on the coordinated interaction with other anatomical structures, particularly the diaphragm and deep abdominal muscles, which together constitute the so-called core stabilizing unit. The function of the pelvic diaphragm is closely related to that of the respiratory diaphragm. The descent of the diaphragm during breathing correlates with the lowering of the pelvic floor, as observed in magnetic resonance imaging studies. Previous literature has not addressed the impact of respiratory diaphragm therapy on the bioelectrical activity of the pelvic floor muscles. Considering the functional relationship between the pelvic floor and the diaphragm, it is hypothesized that proper diaphragm function significantly influences the health and performance of the pelvic region. Moreover, the anticipated benefits of such therapy may include improvements in body posture, the condition of the cervical spine and temporomandibular joints, as well as overall quality of life. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of respiratory diaphragm therapy on the function of the pelvic floor muscles in healthy women. The study also examined the impact of the therapy on the range of motion of the cervical spine and temporomandibular joints. Additionally, using questionnaires, the research assessed whether respiratory diaphragm therapy influences stress levels and sexual quality of life.
Interventions
The therapy consisted of three techniques: diaphragm normalization, work on the central tendon of the diaphragm, and work on the diaphragmatic crura.
First, diaphragm normalization was performed (bilaterally on the costal arches). During this procedure, participants took deep breaths while the therapist assisted the rib arches in moving upward and outward. During exhalation, the therapist prevented the loss of the achieved movement. The inhalation–exhalation cycle was repeated several times unti
The therapy consisted of three techniques: diaphragm normalization, work on the central tendon of the diaphragm, and work on the diaphragmatic crura. First, diaphragm normalization was performed (bilaterally on the costal arches). During this procedure, participants took deep breaths while the therapist assisted the rib arches in moving upward and outward. During exhalation, the therapist prevented the loss of the achieved movement. The inhalation–exhalation cycle was repeated several times until improvement in diaphragm mobility was observed. Next, work on the central tendon of the diaphragm was carried out. The therapist placed the base of the hand above the participant’s navel and followed the respiratory movements during inhalation and exhalation. During exhalation, the therapist’s hand gently sank into the tissue and rotated in a clockwise direction. The breathing cycle was repeated several times to improve diaphragm function. Finally, work on the diaphragmatic crura was performed. The crura of the diaphragm were normalized in a prone position. The physiotherapist placed one hand on the participant’s thigh near the popliteal fossa and the other hand near the diaphragmatic crura — at the level of L1–L2, lateral to the spine, on the side where the therapist stood. The participant was asked to take a deep breath followed by a full exhalation. During exhalation, the participant was instructed to completely relax the body. With each repetition, the range of motion between the therapist’s hands gradually increased. The breathing cycle was repeated several times to enhance diaphragm function. The therapy was conducted individually with each participant. The intensity level of the intervention was adjusted individually according to the patient’s sensations and based on clinical assessment. Therapy was administered three times per week (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday). A total of six therapeutic sessions were applied to the diaphragm over a two-week period. Each technique was performed in synchronization with the participant’s breathing cycle, with inhalation and exhalation repeated several times. The duration of each therapeutic session was not predetermined but depended on the achievement of improved diaphragmatic mobility. To monitor and ensure adherence to the intervention protocol, attendance checklists were used.
Sponsors
Prof. Joanna Golec
Study design
Allocation
Randomised controlled trial
Intervention model
Parallel
Primary purpose
Prevention
Masking
Blinded (masking used) (Investigator, Outcomes Assessor)
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
All
Age
20 Years to 30 Years
Healthy volunteers
Yes
Inclusion criteria
- Sexually active women, - Aged 20 to 30 years, - Nulliparous, - No history of miscarriage, - No reported dysfunctions of the genitourinary system, - No neurological disorders or visual impairments, - No musculoskeletal disorders, - Consent to participate in the study.
Exclusion criteria
- Arterial hypertension, - Diagnosed dysfunctions of the genitourinary system, - Pathological changes within the lesser pelvis, - History of surgical procedures within the abdominal cavity or lesser pelvis, - History of abdominal or spinal injury within the last 6 months prior to study inclusion, - Neurological and musculoskeletal disorders, - Systemic diseases, - Pregnancy, - Participation in physiotherapy within the last 6 months prior to study inclusion.
Outcome results
None listed