Introduction: The pelvic floor muscle (PFM) plays a role not only in lumbopelvic stabilization, but also in incontinence and sexual function.
Objective: This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of PFM training by electrical stimulation (ES) on urinary incontinence, PFM performance (i.e. strength and power), lumbopelvic control, and abdominal muscle thickness in women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI).
Methods: Participants were randomized into ES and control groups. The ES group underwent PFM ES for 8 weeks, whereas the control group underwent only a walking program. The impact of urinary incontinence on quality of life was assessed by the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ)-7. PFM strength and power were measured using a perineometer. Lumbopelvic control was measured by one and double-leg-lowering tests. Abdominal muscle thickness was measured by sonography.
Results: The ES group showed significantly improved IIQ-7 scores and PFM performance, and had significantly higher values in both one and double-leg lowering tests (p < .05) after 8 weeks of training, indicating significant improvement from pre-session values (p < .005). There were no significant between- or within-group differences at rest in abdominal muscle thickness.
Conclusion: PFM ES could improve lumbopelvic control and PFM performance, and reduce subjective symptoms of urinary incontinence in women with SUI.
Keywords: Electrical stimulation; incontinence; lumbopelvic control; pelvic floor muscles.