Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy - Department of Physical Therapy for Gynecology and Obstetrics

Background: low back pain during menstrual cycle is the third most common form of menstrual discomfort. Electro-acupuncture and core stability exercises are safe and effective methods for reducing chronic menstrual low back pain. purpose:This study was conducted to determine if core stability exercisehave more effect than electroacupuncture on low back pain during menstruation at young female. Methods: Fortyfemales diagnosed with low back pain during menstruation, they were selected randomly from outpatient clinic of obstetrics and gynecology in Al Ahrarteaching hospital to share in this study, their age ranged from 18 to 25 years old and their body mass index (BMI) didn`t exceed 30kg/m2, the participants were assigned into two groups of equal numbers. Group (A) received electro acupuncture, for 20 minutes/session, 3 times/week for 4 weeks, while group (B) received core stability exercises for40minutes/session, 5times/week for 4 weeks.All participants were evaluated by VAS, Oswestry disability index (ODI), serum cortisol levels before and after treatment.Results: The results of this study revealed that there was statistically significant improvement in pain, ODI and cortisol level in group (B) than in group (A). Conclusion:Core stability exercises are more effective than electro-acupuncure treatment in reducing menstrual low back pain

Issued also as CD