Biofeedback is superior to electrogalvanic stimulation and massage for treatment of levator ani syndrome.

ABSTRACT:

Background & aims

Levator ani syndrome (LAS) might be treated using biofeedback to teach pelvic floor relaxation, electrogalvanic stimulation (EGS), or massage of levator muscles. We performed a prospective, randomized controlled trial to compare the effectiveness of these techniques and assess physiologic mechanisms for treatment.

Methods

Inclusion criteria were Rome II symptoms plus weekly pain. Patients were categorized as "highly likely" to have LAS if they reported tenderness with traction on the levator muscles or as "possible" LAS if they did not. All 157 patients received 9 sessions including psychologic counseling plus biofeedback, EGS, or massage. Outcomes were reassessed at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months.

Results

Among patients with "highly likely" LAS, adequate re

SUBMITTER: Chiarioni G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2847007 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature