Urinary incontinence and pelvic floor strengthening education in collegiate dancers

Abstract

The purpose of this pilot study was to test the efficacy of an educational exercise program for treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Participants completed a pre-survey to determine the presence and severity of SUI and quality of life. The researchers examined subjects' ability to perform a Kegel, educated on how to perform the exercise correctly, and prescribed a daily home exercise program. The participants were re-tested, re-educated, and completed a post-survey at four and eight weeks. Over an 8-week period subjects that were able to perform an isolated contraction increased from 14% to 71%. The number of subjects who reported SUI decreased from 71% to 29%. The study found that there was a decrease in frequency of SUI at both 4 and 8 week follow-ups. These results may lead to future research and the development of a preventative exercise program to provide to young females.