Comparison of the Effect of Osteopathic Manipulations and Exercises on the Myoelectric Activity of the Pelvic Floor: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective: The purpose of this clinical trial was to compare the effects of 4 different interventions on electromyographic activity of the pelvic floor muscles in women with stress urinary incontinence (UI).

Methods: Fifty-one women with stress UI were randomized into 4 groups: a global osteopathic protocol (myofascial, visceral, and articular techniques); 1 manipulation technique (high-velocity, low-amplitude/thrust) of the sacroiliac joint and T10-L2; training of the pelvic floor muscles; and no intervention (control). Electromyographic activity of the pelvic floor muscles was evaluated at 5 different times (baseline, immediately after the procedure, 30 minutes, 1 hour, and 4 weeks after intervention).

Results: Forty women completed the study. There were no immediate or late effects on the myoelectric activity of any type of muscle fiber in any of the groups analyzed.

Conclusion: There were no significant between-groups differences of electromyography in women with symptoms of stress UI.