Effects of Pelvic Exercises Combined with Connective Tissue Massage on Menstrual Pain, Postural Alignment, and Quality of Life in Women of Childbearing Age

Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of pelvic exercises combined with connective tissue massage on menstrual pain, postural alignment, and quality of life in women of childbearing age. Methods Women in their 20s with primary menstrual pain, who met the selection criteria, were assigned to the study group (n=24). The study group performed pelvic exercises and connective tissue massage for two weeks, seven times a week, for 45 min each day. The Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), digital inclinometer, smart insole, and ShortForm 36 Health Survey were used to measure variable changes between pre and post intervention and during followup observation. Results The intervention group demonstrated statistically significant differences in the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire and Visual Analog Scale scores (p<0.001), Thoracolumbar Junction angle (p<0.001), lumbar lordosis angle (p<0.01), medial and lateral plantar pressures (p<0.05), anterior and posterior plantar pressures (p<0.001) and ShortForm 36 Health Survey (p<0.001) at least at one time point. Conclusion Pelvic exercise combined with connective tissue massage positively affected menstrual pain, postural alignment, and quality of life in women of childbearing age.