Informatics Publishing Limited

G. Yuvarani ¹, V. Rajalaxmi ¹, K. Kamatchi ¹, G. Tharani ¹, K. Muthulakshmi ¹, I. Sumaiya Banu ¹

Affiliations
1 Dr. MGR Educational and Research Institute, ACS Medical College and Hospital, Vellappanchavadi, Chennai -77, IN

Abstract

Aim - This study intends to compare the combination of Pelvic Floor Muscle Strengthening Exercise (PFMSE) with OTAGO exercise and Stay Active and Independent for Life (SAIL) exercises separately for managing UI and fall risk among women. Background of the study - Urinary incontinence (UI) is the unintentional passing of the urine and is defined by the International Incontinence Society as an “Involuntary loss of urine which is objectively a demonstrable, Social and Hygienic Problem”. It is a disorder of the reservoir function of the lower urinary tract, comprising the bladder, urethra, and sphincter muscles (1). Urinary incontinence is not just a medical problem but affects the emotional, psychological and social life of the individuals. This problem is observed both in men and women, but tends to be more common among the latter. The prevalence of falls in Indian older adults ranges from 14% to 53%. The risk factor for falls include: older age, gait deficit, malnutrition, visual impairment, muscle weakness, impaired balance and the risk of fall increases as the age. Procedure – After obtaining the approval from the institutional review board, this experimental study was conducted at the outpatient physiotherapy department. 30 females who fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected and they were grouped into Group A and GroupB. The outcome measures used were Berg Balance scale, The Urogenital Distress Inventory (UDI)-6 and Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ)-7. GroupA received Otago exercises and Group B received SAIL exercises. Both groups received pelvic floor muscle exercises. Result – on comparing the data’s obtained it was evident that GroupA showed significant improvement than GroupB, which states that Otago exercises along with pelvic floor muscle strengthening exercises are effective in reducing urinary incontinence and fall risk.

Keywords

Urinary Incontinence, Otago, SAIL, PFME.

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