The Efficacy of Manual Therapy for Treatment of Dyspareunia in Females: A Systematic Review

Background: Pelvic floor physical therapy is a noninvasive option for relieving pain associated with dyspareunia, genital pain associated with sexual intercourse. Manual therapy is a clinical approach used by physical therapists to mobilize soft tissues, reduce pain, and improve function. To date, the systematic efficacy of manual therapy for treating dyspareunia has not been investigated. Objective: To examine the efficacy of manual therapy in reducing pelvic pain among females with dyspareunia. Study Design: Systematic review. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL databases for articles published between June 1997 and June 2018. Articles were reviewed and selected on the basis of defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The articles were assessed for quality using the PEDro and Modified Downs and Black scales. Results: Three observational studies and 1 randomized clinical trial met inclusion criteria. The primary outcome measured was the pain subscale of the Female Sexual Function Index. All studies showed significant improvements in the pain domain of the Female Sexual Function Index (P
Source: Journal of Women’s Health Physical Therapy - Category: Physiotherapy Tags: Systematic Review Source Type: research