Postural changes in women with chronic pelvic pain: a case control study
Mary Lls Montenegro1, Elaine Cl Mateus-Vasconcelos, Júlio C Rosa E Silva
1Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of Sao Paulo- Ribeirao Preto, São Paulo, Brazil. montenegro_ml@hotmail.com
BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders
|July 9, 2009
Summary
Women with chronic pelvic pain (CPP) frequently exhibit postural changes in their cervical spine and scapulae. These musculoskeletal alterations are significantly associated with CPP, suggesting a need for postural assessment in diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Physiotherapy
- Musculoskeletal Health
- Pain Management
Background:
- Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) is defined as pain in the lower abdomen for at least six months, independent of menstruation or intercourse.
- While musculoskeletal involvement in CPP is acknowledged, the role of posture remains under-researched.
- This study investigates whether women with CPP present a higher frequency of postural changes compared to healthy individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the association between postural changes and chronic pelvic pain in women.
- To identify specific postural alterations linked to CPP.
- To highlight the importance of postural assessment in the clinical evaluation of CPP.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 108 women with CPP and 48 healthy controls.
- Noninvasive postural assessment in a standing position using Kendall's reference points.
- Logistic regression analysis to identify factors associated with CPP.
Main Results:
- Postural changes in the cervical spine were independently associated with CPP (OR 4.1, p < 0.01).
- Postural changes in the scapulae were also independently associated with CPP (OR 2.9, p < 0.05).
- Musculoskeletal changes were identified in 34% of women with CPP.
Conclusions:
- Musculoskeletal and postural alterations are significantly associated with chronic pelvic pain in women.
- These findings underscore the necessity of comprehensive postural assessments for improved diagnosis and treatment of CPP.
- Integrating postural evaluation into clinical practice may enhance therapeutic outcomes for women suffering from CPP.
