doi:10.1007/s00192-024-05801-8...
Springer
Urology
2024
5/22/2024
Introduction and hypothesis Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is defined as involuntary leakage of urine on physical effort and is prevalent among power- and weightlifters.
However, there is scant knowledge on treatment options for this population.
The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the potential outcomes and feasibility of a pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) program on SUI in nulliparous female power- and weightlifters.
Methods This was a case-series study, including one weightlifter and two powerlifters aged 21–32 years.
The participants conducted 12 weeks of PFMT at home, with weekly follow-up by a physiotherapist.
Change in total score of the International Consensus of Incontinence Questionnaire Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-UI-SF) was the primary outcome.
Secondary outcome was perceived change assessed by the Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I) Scale and impact on sport participation.
PFM strength, endurance, and resting pressure was measured using vaginal manometry.
Feasibility was evaluated as adherence to training and self-efficacy (Self Efficacy Scale for Practicing Pelvic Floor Exercises).
Results One athlete reduced their ICIQ-UI-SF score and experienced improvement in symptoms.
One athlete reported no change, and one reported a worsening of symptoms.
All three participants improved PFM strength and endurance, completed the testing, and 12 weeks of PFMT, but adherence varied between 40 and 80%.
Participants reported a lack of time and energy and forgetting to perform the exercises, as reasons for low adherence.
Conclusion There were varying effects of a 12-week PFMT program on SUI in three strength athletes.
The results can create the basis for a future randomized controlled trial.
Bø, Kari,Lillegård, Ragnhild Haug,Skaug, Kristina Lindquist, 2024, Pelvic Floor Muscle Training on Stress Urinary Incontinence in Power- and Weightlifters: a Pilot Study, Springer