ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To determine whether a multimodal rehabilitation protocol (Biofeedback [BFB] plus capacitive-resistive [INDIBA®] radiofrequency [RF]) reduces pain and increases muscular strength in patients with chronic pelvic pain (CPP) and dyspareunia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We performed a prospective, quasi-experimental, before-after study in 37 patients with CPP and/or dyspareunia referred to the Rehabilitation Department of Hospital Universitario Santa Cristina (January 2016 to December 2018). The protocol consisted of 8 sessions of pelvic floor exercises assisted by manometric BFB (15min of tonic/phasic exercises each) supervised by a physiotherapist, followed by suprapubic and perineovaginal bipolar RF [capacitive(5 min)/resistive(10 min)]. The variables evaluated were pain (VAS 0-10) and strength (mmHg) of the pelvic floor musculature and the start/end of the treatment. RESULTS: The mean age was 41.5±12.65 years. The prevalence was higher among women aged 21-40 years (n=20, 54%) and those aged 41-60 years (n=12; 32.4%). Dyspareunia was present in 34 patients (91.8%), and non-specific CPP in 3 (8.2%). The protocol improved pain (from 7.27±1.34 to 3.75±2.21 points), maximal muscular strength (from 25.56±15.9mmHg to 35.35±20.4mmHg) and mean muscular strength (from 4.86±3.53mmHg to 7.18±4.46mmHg) respectively (p<0.0001). CONCLUSION: CPP and dyspareunia are a diagnostic challenge that requires multidisciplinary management. Treatment should be started early and should consist of distinct therapeutic modalities. The protocol of multimodal rehabilitation including BFB and capacitive-resistive RF reduces pain and improves strength in patients with CPP and dyspareunia.
