1Physiotherapist, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi
2Lecturer OT, PDU National Institute for Persons with Physical Disabilities, New Delhi
3Assistant Professor, Department of PSM, Faculty of Medicine (U), Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi
Online published on 18 July, 2017.
Pelvic Floor Muscles (PFM) may be activated together with the abdominal muscles. Association of active transverse abdominis (TrA) contraction with co-activation of PFM is evident. This has been demonstrated by ultrasound, electromyography and magnetic resonance imaging.
Non-systematic review, data sources: Science direct and Pub med. Full text articles of last 12 years (2001–12) were taken as information sources.
Research has led to an increased understanding of the synergy between the deep abdominals and PFM. The inferior boundary of an abdominal pelvic cavity is formed by pelvic floor. The co-ordinated action of muscles which surrounds the cavity generates intra-abdominal pressure, with the PFM acting before the pressure rise to maintain organ support, urinary and fecal incontinence.
This new approach shows promise as an alternative for those women with incontinence who cannot accept vaginal palpation. Functional activity based on the synergistic actions may also be used to strengthen PFM.
PFM, Rehabilitation, Strengthening, Incontinence and Transverse abdominis
