The Impact of Trunk and Lower Extremity Electrical Stimulation on Pelvic Floor Muscle Strength in Females
Investigation of the Effects of Electrical Stimulation Applied to Trunk and Lower Extremity Muscles on Pelvic Floor Muscle Strength in Women
Okan University
60 participants
Mar 23, 2026
INTERVENTIONAL
Conditions
Summary
This study aims to investigate the effects of whole-body electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) applied to the trunk and lower extremity muscles on pelvic floor muscle strength in healthy women. Since pelvic floor muscles are deep-seated and can be difficult to activate voluntarily, this research explores whether stimulating related muscle groups (core and legs) can provide an indirect benefit to pelvic floor strength. Participants will be divided into three groups (EMS + exercise, Sham-EMS + exercise, and exercise only) and will undergo a 6-week intervention program. Changes in pelvic floor muscle strength will be evaluated using a perineometer to determine the effectiveness of this non-invasive approach.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria5
- Biological female volunteers aged between 18 and 45 years.
- Having a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 18.5 and 29.9 kg/m².
- Being sedentary or having a low level of physical activity (not participating in regular exercise programs in the last 6 months).
- Volunteering to participate in the study and signing the informed consent form.
- Being mentally and physically capable of following the 12-week exercise and EMS protocol.
Exclusion Criteria8
- Having a history of pelvic floor surgery or major abdominal surgery.
- Being pregnant or having given birth within the last 6 months.
- Having a diagnosed neurological disorder that affects muscle control (e.g., Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's).
- Having an active urinary tract infection or symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse.
- Having a cardiac pacemaker or any metal implants in the trunk and hip area (contraindications for EMS).
- Having chronic diseases that may interfere with exercise participation (e.g., uncontrolled hypertension, severe cardiovascular disease).
- Having skin lesions, infections, or severe sensitivity in the areas where EMS electrodes will be applied.
- Using medications that affect muscle metabolism or the neuromuscular system.
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Interventions
Electrical stimulation applied via electrodes integrated into a specialized garment, targeting core and lower extremity muscles.
A six-week exercise program consisting of specific movements for core and lower limb muscle groups, performed twice weekly
Locations(1)
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NCT07554612