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Diaphragm-Pelvic Floor Synergy Training in Young Females With Primary Dysmenorrhea.
Sponsor: Riphah International University
Summary
The research investigating the effects of Diaphragm-Pelvic Floor Synergy (DPFS) training targets primary dysmenorrhea in university-aged females. This randomized controlled trial evaluates how restoring the functional "piston" relationship between the diaphragm and pelvic floor can alleviate menstrual pain and enhance quality of life. By implementing an eight-week progressive exercise protocol, the study compares DPFS training against standard symptomatic care like TENS and heat therapy. Using the WALIDD scale and WHOQOL-BREF, the research aims to establish a non-pharmacological, evidence-based physiotherapy intervention that reduces medication reliance and academic absenteeism in South Asian clinical settings.
Official title: Effects of Diaphragm-Pelvic Floor Synergy Training on Pain and Quality of Life in Young Females With Primary Dysmenorrhea.
Key Details
Gender
FEMALE
Age Range
18 Years - 24 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
64
Start Date
2026-07-28
Completion Date
2026-12
Last Updated
2026-08-10
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Diaphragm-Pelvic Floor Synergy (DPFS) Training
This intervention is a supervised 8-week program consisting of 3 sessions per week. It focuses on the functional coordination of the thoracic diaphragm and pelvic floor muscles to regulate intra-abdominal pressure. The protocol involves a "piston" technique where participants perform a 4-second slow inhalation (allowing the pelvic floor to relax and descend) followed by a 6-second pursed-lip exhalation (actively contracting and elevating the pelvic floor). The training is progressive, advancing every two weeks through four postural levels: supine, sitting, quadruped, and standing.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
This arm receives established clinical treatments for menstrual pain. During the first three days of the menstrual cycle, participants receive 30 minutes of High-Frequency Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) at 100 Hz and 20 minutes of moist heat therapy. On non-menstrual days, they participate in supervised Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) sessions three times per week to manage general muscle tension and stress.
Locations (1)
Prime Institute of Health Sciences, Islamabad
Islamabad, Punjab Province, Pakistan