This study aims to investigate the effects of transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (TTNS) on women with primary dysmenorrhea (PD).
Dysmenorrhea is defined as painful menstrual cramps of uterine origin, and considered as one of the most common gynecological disorders among females of childbearing age. Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) typically manifests within 6-12 months following menarche. It is not associated with organic lesions but is primarily attributed to uterine smooth muscle spasms and vasoconstriction, which are induced by elevated prostaglandin levels. Additionally, the use of transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (TTNS), which consists of the stimulation of the posterior tibial nerve in the superomedial region of the ankle, may be a promising treatment option. The hypogastric sympathetic plexus (L4-L5) and the pelvic parasympathetic plexus (S2-S4) have the same medullar level as the posterior tibial nerve (L4-S3). Thus, inhibitory and excitatory impulses that control the function of the pelvic viscera at the level of the spinal cord can be rebalanced with their stimulation.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
32
Patients will receive the transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (TTNS) and traditional treatment (Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) for three sessions a week for four consecutive weeks.
Patients will receive the placebo transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (TTNS) and traditional treatment (Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) for three sessions a week for four consecutive weeks.
Kafrelsheikh University (Faculty of Physical Therapy)
Kafr ash Shaykh, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt
RECRUITINGPain Intensity
Pain Intensity will be assessed using visual Analogue Scale (VAS). VAS consisted of a continuous 10 cm line that represents the pain intensity, ranging from zero; on the left side, which indicates no pain, or discomfort to 10; on the right side, which indicates the worst possible pain he could feel.
Time frame: 6 months after the procedure
Prostaglandin level
Serum Prostaglandin will be measured.
Time frame: 6 months after the procedure
Assessment of Quality of Life
Quality of Life (QOL) will be assessed using the Arabic Version of the Short Form 36 Health Questionnaire. This questionnaire will be used for assessment of QOL. It is made up of 35 items that measure 8 dimensions of health-related QOL. In addition, it includes a change self-assessment item that is not used in scoring. The instrument items cover: physical function, physical role, bodily pain, general health, vitality, social function, emotional role and mental health. The higher the score on the SF-36, the better the health.
Time frame: 6 months after the procedure
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