Physiotherapy for Pelvic Dysfunction: A Comprehensive Review
- 1Kayseri University İncesu Ayşe and Saffet Arslan Health Services Vocational School, Department of Treatment and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy Program, Kayseri, Türkiye
- 2Fırat University Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Elazığ, Türkiye
Abstract
Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) includes a range of disorders such as urinary and fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction. These conditions affect millions globally, often leading to decreased quality of life. Physiotherapy has emerged as a first-line, non-invasive treatment with growing clinical support. To synthesize current evidence (2014-2024) regarding physiotherapy-based interventions for the treatment and prevention of PFD in general and special populations. A narrative literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed articles, randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and clinical guidelines. Interventions assessed include pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT), biofeedback, electrical stimulation, manual therapy, behavioral modification, and telerehabilitation. PFMT remains the most effective and widely recommended intervention, particularly for stress urinary incontinence and mild pelvic organ prolapse. Biofeedback enhances motor control and adherence, especially in older adults or postpartum women. Electrical stimulation benefits patients with poor voluntary contraction capacity. Manual therapy is effective in cases of pelvic pain associated with hypertonic muscle activity. Behavioral strategies, including bladder training and toileting education, further optimize outcomes. Emerging evidence supports the use of app-based PFMT and digital tools, though engagement varies. Physiotherapy shows positive outcomes in special populations including postpartum, postmenopausal, and post-prostatectomy patients. Physiotherapy offers an evidence-based, individualized approach for managing PFD across a range of populations. Continued research, broader access to trained professionals, and integration of digital technologies are essential to improve treatment reach and long-term outcomes.
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BibTeX
@article{copuroglu2026physiotherapy,
title = {{Physiotherapy for Pelvic Dysfunction: A Comprehensive Review}},
author = {Özge BAYKAN ÇOPUROĞLU and Betül ERGÜN},
journal = {Bezmiâlem Science},
year = {2026},
month = oct,
doi = {10.14235/bas.galenos.2025.92678},
url = {https://doi.org/10.14235/bas.galenos.2025.92678},
note = {CC BY-NC-ND},
}
RIS
TY - JOUR
TI - Physiotherapy for Pelvic Dysfunction: A Comprehensive Review
AU - Özge BAYKAN ÇOPUROĞLU
AU - Betül ERGÜN
PY - 2026
DA - 2026/10/26
JO - Bezmiâlem Science
DO - 10.14235/bas.galenos.2025.92678
UR - https://doi.org/10.14235/bas.galenos.2025.92678
AB - Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) includes a range of disorders such as urinary and fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction. These conditions affect millions globally, often leading to decreased quality of life. Physiotherapy has emerged as a first-line, non-invasive treatment with growing clinical support. To synthesize current evidence (2014-2024) regarding physiotherapy-based interventions for the treatment and prevention of PFD in general and special populations. A narrative literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed articles, randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and clinical guidelines. Interventions assessed include pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT), biofeedback, electrical stimulation, manual therapy, behavioral modification, and telerehabilitation. PFMT remains the most effective and widely recommended intervention, particularly for stress urinary incontinence and mild pelvic organ prolapse. Biofeedback enhances motor control and adherence, especially in older adults or postpartum women. Electrical stimulation benefits patients with poor voluntary contraction capacity. Manual therapy is effective in cases of pelvic pain associated with hypertonic muscle activity. Behavioral strategies, including bladder training and toileting education, further optimize outcomes. Emerging evidence supports the use of app-based PFMT and digital tools, though engagement varies. Physiotherapy shows positive outcomes in special populations including postpartum, postmenopausal, and post-prostatectomy patients. Physiotherapy offers an evidence-based, individualized approach for managing PFD across a range of populations. Continued research, broader access to trained professionals, and integration of digital technologies are essential to improve treatment reach and long-term outcomes.
SN - 2148-2373
ER -