A combined intervention study on the recovery of pelvic floor muscle function after hysterectomy
The incidence of post hysterectomy pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is as high as 30%. Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) is a common treatment for PFD. However, its effectiveness is limited and the time required is long. In recent years, many studies show that combined interventions may improve the outcomes by addressing both the biomechanical and functional aspects of PFD. This study evaluated the efficacy of single PFMT, PFMT + ES (electrical stimulation), and PFMT + ES + psychological interventions in restoring pelvic floor biomechanics and function after hysterectomy. In this study, 40 patients aged 40–60 years who underwent hysterectomy were selected. The biomechanical outcomes, including pelvic muscle strength, force distribution, and bladder activity, were assessed using standardized biomechanical measurements. Their sexuality and bladder activity were compared after a 6-week period of treatment. The results showed that the patients who were treated with the combination of PFMT + ES + psychological intervention had the most significant improvement in all biomechanical and functional indicators. Specifically, this group exhibited enhanced pelvic muscle mechanics, improved force control, and greater bladder stability, highlighting the synergistic effects of the combined approach. This study concludes that the combined treatment of PFMT + ES + psychological intervention is a very effective conservative treatment, particularly in restoring pelvic biomechanics and function. The findings provide valuable insights into the biomechanical mechanisms underlying PFD recovery and underscore the importance of integrating mechanical, physiological, and psychological approaches for optimal outcomes. However, the small sample size of this single-center study limits the generalizability of the conclusions, which requires cautious promotion in clinical practice.
Authors
- Xinying Zhao (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9286-9149)
- Zhìhóng Hú (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1560-0928)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Molecular & cellular biomechanics
- Published
- 2025-03-24
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.62617/mcb1857
- Primary Topic
- Pelvic floor disorders treatments
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00