Prevalence of Core and Hip Muscle Weakness in Primary Dysmenorrhea

BACKGROUND

Primary dysmenorrhea refers to painful menstrual cramps without any underlying medical conditions, characterised by severe lower abdominal discomfort before or during menstruation. Other symptoms may include lower back pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, headaches, and fatigue, which can interfere with daily activities. While hormonal factors are commonly associated with dysmenorrhea, recent research suggests that musculoskeletal issues, like hip and core muscle weakness and lumbo-pelvic misalignment, may contribute to the condition by affecting uterine positioning and blood flow.  Further, impaired hip and core muscle function may contribute to maladaptive movement patterns and increased pain sensitivity in dysmenorrhea. This study aims to evaluate hip and core weakness in primary dysmenorrhea individuals, utilising objective measures to understand musculoskeletal alterations influencing symptom severity and treatment outcomes. Insights gained can inform tailored exercise programmes and rehabilitation protocols, empowering physiotherapists to provide personalised care and optimise treatment outcomes for dysmenorrhea sufferers.

Needs OF THE STUDY

Dysmenorrhea, the most common gynaecological disorder, is often neglected or mistaken as a normal part of the menstrual cycle, particularly among contemporary females. Due to its significant impact on adolescents and those in their productive years, more research is needed to better understand and manage the condition. Identifying modifiable risk factors can lead to personalised treatment, improving outcomes, and reducing the burden on healthcare systems. While studies have explored the effectiveness of core training on pain and symptom severity in primary dysmenorrhea, research has yet to assess hip and core function before and after intervention, despite evidence of poor abdominal muscle performance in affected individuals.

METHADOLOGY

Study design: A cross-sectional study

Study population: college-going students (age 18-25)

Study setting: Amar Jyoti Institute of Physiotherapy, Karkardooma

Sample size: 384 (slovian formula)

Sampling method: The subjects will be recruited through convenience sampling

INCLUSION CRITERIA:-

Age of subjects between 18 and 25 years (Kulkarni et al.,2019)

Females with regular menstrual cycle (i.e. 25 to 35 days) (Jain, 2014)

Willing to participate

Working knowledge of englishEXCLUSION CRITERIA:-

Students not willing to participate

Using pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods of pain relief

Irregular menstrual cycles

History of any gynaecological disorder or secondary dysmenorrhea

History of any musculoskeletal or neurological problems

History of recent fracture, strain and sprain

Who do not indulge in any form of physical activity?

OUTCOME MEASURES

• core strength measurement:  pressure biofeedback machine

A pressure biofeedback machine is a device used to measure core strength and stability by assessing muscle performance and endurance. The machine consists of a pressure sensor and a feedback unit, which typically includes a display screen to show real-time data. This method is non-invasive, easy to use, and provides immediate insights into core muscle function.

• Hip muscke strength: hand held dynamometer

A handheld dynamometer is a device used to measure muscle strength, including hip strength, by quantifying the force exerted during muscle contractions. The handheld dynamometer consists of a force sensor and a display unit. The force sensor is placed at the point of contact where muscle strength is to be measured

PROCEDURE

• Subject Screening: Eligible subjects will be screened based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria outlined in the study protocol.
• . Measurements:

a) Core strength using pressure biofeedback and deep muscle contraction test, trunk endurance flexion and extension test b) Hip muscle strength hand held dynamometer

• .Data Analysis – Data will be complied and analysed using SPSS version 16.0.0