Pelvic Floor Muscle Activation and Strength Components

Helena Luginbuehl, et al, Neurourology and Urodynamics 34:498–506 (2015)

Elizabeth Lewis, PT, OCS, WCS

Oct. 14, 2015

Pelvic Physical Therapy Distance Journal Club

Description: This systematic review had a stated purpose of developing a better understanding of PFM activation and strength components in order to develop more specific PFM training regimens for female SUI patients.  The aim of this systematic review was to summarize/evaluate existing studies investigating PFM activation/strength components which influence female continence and SUI.

Effects of walking speeds and carrying techniques

Tanner J. Coleman, Nadia M. Hamad, Janet M. Shaw, Marlene J. Egger, Yvonne Hsu, Robert Hitchcock,  Huifeng Jin,  Chan K. Choi, Ingrid E. Nygaard

Received: 24 September 2014 /Accepted: 27 November 2014 /Published online: 20 December 20

Elizabeth Lewis, PT, OCS, WCS

Oct 14, 2015

Pelvic Physical Therapy Distance Journal Club

Clinical Question: What is known about any specific functional activities and their impact on intra-abdominal pressure?  Similar topic was discussed June 2013, see outline here. http://pelvicpt.blogspot.com/2013/06/activity-restrictions-after.html

Clinical Bottom Line: IAP can be monitored in women outside of a lab during functional activities of lift/carry and walking.  Mean IAP increases with walking speed and the most common ways of carrying a baby in a car seat (front, side or awkward carry) had significantly higher associated IAP’s than back pack carry.