The comparison of EMG-biofeedback and extracorporeal magnetic innervation treatments in women with urinary incontinence.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of EMG-biofeedback (EMG-BF), extracorporeal magnetic innervation (ExMI), and pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) treatments on women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Materials and Meth- ods: The study included 67 women with SUI. Pelvic floor muscles (PFMs) were evaluated with electromyography and the quality of life (QoL) with Incontinence Quality of Life (I-QoL) questionnaire; afterwards, the subjects were divided into three groups; EMG-BF group (n=23), ExMI group (n=20), and PFMT group (n=24). EMG-BF group and ExMI group were given training in urogynecologi- cal physiotherapy clinic. PFMT group were given eight-week home exercises. Each group was assessed before training and after eight weeks.

RESULTS

All three groups showed a significant improvement in EMG activity values and average QoL scores. The greatest im- provement was observed in the EMG-BF training group for QoL scores.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that all of the three methods performed with the purpose of increasing PFM strength were effective. The increase in PFM strength reduces incontinence associated symptoms and thus improves Qol.