Effect of Ankle Position and Pelvic Floor Muscle Force With Relaxation of Pelvic Floor Muscles Syndrome

Strengthening exercises of Pelvic Floor Muscles (PFM) is the first line treatment for female pelvic floor dysfunction. Actually the best position to facilitate PFM force is controversial in different studies. The aim of this study is to assess the effect of ankle positions on pelvic floor muscle force during PFM exercises.

This clinical trial study was carried out on 58 women aged 25-55 years with relaxation of pelvic floor muscles who referred to women's clinic of educational hospitals of Mashhad University of Medical Sciences in 1389. After clinical examination and confirmation of pelvic floor muscle relaxation, women were randomize divided into 3 groups, doing strengthening exercises of PFM in standing position with passive ankle dorsi flexion (on wooden surface with 15 degree angle)(n=20), active ankle plantar flexion with arm up (standing on toe)(n=20) and horizontal standing position (n=19) for 8 weeks. PFM exercises were instructed to women by using a pamphlet and face to face education. They were followed up every two week by telephone call and were asked to refer to women's clinic after 4 & 8 weeks. Pelvic floor muscles strength was assessed with brink score before and after intervention. Data analyzed by using analytic-descriptive statistics.