Overview

Pelvic floor biofeedback is a technique that allows the patient to isolate, exercise, and strengthen specific muscles in the pelvic region. Strengthening certain muscles has been shown to help select patients with chronic pelvic pain.

The principle of biofeedback involves the use of sensors that can detect activity in the target muscles that then provide auditory and/or visual cues to the patient to reinforce the appropriate patient efforts. Basically, the cues provided to the patient let the patient know they are doing the exercise correctly. Thus, the patients rapidly learn how to do the desired exercises properly.

Pelvic floor biofeedback is administered by a specialized therapist trained in these techniques. Special sensors are placed inside and outside the body in proximity to the target muscles. It is painless and well-tolerated. This technique represents a powerful, noninvasive therapy to treat chronic pelvic pain in both men and women.

References

Jorge JM, Habr-Gama A, Wexner SD. Biofeedback therapy in the colon and rectal practice. Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback 2003;28:47-61.

Cornel EB, van Haarst EP, Schaarsberg RW, Geels J. The effect of biofeedback physical therapy in men with Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome Type III. Eur Urol 2005;47:607-11.

Glazer HI, Rodke G, Swencionis C, Hertz R, Young AW. Treatment of vulvar vestibulitis syndrome with electromyographic biofeedback of pelvic floor musculature. J Reprod Med 1995;40:283-90.