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

This study was conducted to determine the efficacy of acupuncture and diet modification using soy products on amenorrhea in female athlete triad. Subjects: Sixty female athletes were selected randomly from Sports Medicine Specialized Center in Nasr City, El Shams Club and Elobour sporting club, suffering from amenorrhea. Their age ranged from 17 to 25 years old, and their body mass index < 20 Kg/m2, they were all gymnastics players. They were divided randomly into three equal groups, Group A: Twenty patients received acupuncture sessions 30 minutes, three times per week for twelve weeks. Group B: Twenty patients recieved soy diet from organic origin (phytoestrogen) daily for twelve weeks as 100 milliliter soy milk and 100 gram soy bean. Group C: Twenty patients received both acupuncture therapy and soy in diet for twelve weeks. Measurements: All participants were assessed before and after the treatment program through hormonal analysis to show the levels of Estradiol 2 (E2), FSH and LH for the three groups. Results: The results revealed that menstrual cycle after 12 weeks of treatment has returned significantly in Group C than Group A and B, also E2, FSH and LH showed a significant increase post treatment in Group C rather than Group A and B. Conclusion: Acupuncture and phytoestrogen as soy products appears to be an effective, safe and successful alternative method to treat amenorrhea in female athlete triad

Issued also as CD