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

Background: Dysmenorrhea can be defined as painful menses in females that represents a common gynecologic problem worldwide affecting about 60% of women among adolescent and young adult females. It categorized into two types: primary and secondary dysmenorrhea. Primary dysmenorrhea is a painful menstrual cramp that felt in lower abdomen and pain can transfer downwards into the inner thighs. Common symptoms displayed by females suffering from the condition include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, and headaches, many of which can have an adverse impact on daily life. Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) is an efficient modality used in physical therapy field for treatment of many pathological cases; PEMF has strong analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. It has also vasodilatation effect, and it can decrease edema. Acupuncture is one modality of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). According to the theory of TCM there are 12 main channels or meridians, and energy or Qi flows in these channels throughout the body. TCM would describe the cause of primary dysmenorrhoea in terms of energy disturbances or imbalances, or organ deficiencies and excesses. Acupuncture is used to re-balance the flow of Qi (energy) through the insertion of needles into the skin along the meridians .Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare between the effect of pulsed electromagnetic field and effect of electro acupuncture on pain of primary dysmenorrhea

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