THE EFFECT OF EGOSCUE EXERCISES ON PAIN, MUSCLE TIGHTNESS, CORE STRENGTH AND QUALITY OF LIFE IN YOUNG WOMEN WITH PRIMARY DYSMENORRHEA

Abstract

Primary dysmenorrhea, characterized by painful menstruation in the absence of pelvic pathology, significantly affects the quality of life and daily functioning of young women. Associated symptoms include lower abdominal cramps, nausea, headache, and fatigue. The pain is primarily linked to excessive prostaglandin production and musculoskeletal imbalances, including iliopsoas tightness and weak core muscles. While various interventions exist, research on the effectiveness of Egoscue exercises—a postural alignment-based corrective approach—is limited. OBJECTIVE:This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Egoscue exercises on pain intensity, iliopsoas tightness, core strength, and menstrual distress in females with primary dysmenorrhea. METHODS:An experimental pre-post study was conducted on 89 females aged 17–30 years with primary dysmenorrhea. Participants received Egoscue exercises thrice weekly for one menstrual cycle (approx. 4 weeks). Outcome measures included the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ), Thomas Test for iliopsoas tightness, and core strength using pressure biofeedback. RESULTS:Post-intervention analysis revealed significant improvements across all outcomes. Pain intensity reduced by 43.37% (p=0.0001), iliopsoas tightness improved by 20–22% (p=0.0001), core strength increased by 27% (p=0.0001), and menstrual distress decreased by 21.52% (p=0.0001). Effect sizes ranged from moderate to large. CONCLUSION:
Egoscue exercises significantly reduced dysmenorrhea-related pain, improved musculoskeletal alignment, enhanced core strength, and alleviated menstrual distress. These findings suggest that incorporating postural alignment therapy such as Egoscue can be an effective conservative management strategy for primary dysmenorrhea in young women.