Myofascial pain and pelvic floor dysfunction in patients with interstitial cystitis

Younger Age Is Associated With Pelvic Floor Muscle Dysfunction in Women With Urinary Symptoms

IMPORTANCE

Recent articles have highlighted the existence of pelvic floor myofascial dysfunction in women presenting with pelvic floor disorders.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to evaluate whether younger age is associated with pelvic floor muscle dysfunction in women with lower urinary tract symptoms, including urinary urgency, frequency, nocturia, and urinary incontinence.

STUDY DESIGN

This retrospective cohort study included women seeking an initial outpatient urogynecology evaluation for urinary symptoms from 8/2018 to 2/2022. The primary outcome was the presence of pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, defined as a diagnosis of levator myalgia/spasm. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate the association.

RESULTS

Four hundred twenty-one women with lower urinary tract symptoms were included, and 115 (27.3%) were diagnosed with pelvic floor muscle dysfunction. Women with pelvic floor dysfunction were 13 years younger, less likely to report any incontinence (60% vs 71.9%, P = 0.026) and urgency incontinence (8.7% vs 17.3%, P = 0.04). There was no difference in reported urgency, frequency, or nocturia. Women with pelvic floor dysfunction were more likely to report dysuria (19.1% vs 9.5%, P = 0.012), dyspareunia (39% vs 7.5%, P < 0.001), vulvodynia (11.3% vs 2.3%, P < 0.001), and pelvic pain (25.2% vs 7.2%, P < 0.001). The odds of pelvic floor muscle dysfunction in women <40 years old was 2.34 times greater than women ≥40 years old, after adjusting for other factors (adjusted odds ratio 2.341, 95% confidence interval [1.102, 4.972]).

CONCLUSIONS

Younger women with lower urinary tract symptoms were significantly more likely to have pelvic floor muscle dysfunction compared to older women with similar symptoms, even after controlling for other associated characteristics.

A Review of the Application of Myofascial Release Therapy in the Treatment of Diseases

Myofascial release (MFR) therapy is widely used in clinical practice to treat various musculoskeletal and pain-related conditions. However, there is a lack of comprehensive reviews that systematically evaluate its effectiveness across different medical conditions, leading to inconsistent applications and understanding of its therapeutic potential. This review aims to synthesize the current applications of myofascial release therapy in the treatment of various diseases, highlighting its efficacy and identifying areas where further research is needed. The review covers the application of myofascial release therapy in conditions such as chronic pain, fibromyalgia, post-surgical recovery, and neurological disorders. It evaluates the outcomes of existing studies, identifies gaps in the literature, and discusses the mechanisms through which myofascial release exerts its effects. Additionally, the review provides insights into the limitations of current research and suggests directions for future studies to enhance the clinical application of myofascial release therapy.

Myofascial pelvic pain: the forgotten player in chronic pelvic pain

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In this review article, we discuss myofascial-related chronic pelvic pain, pathophysiology, symptomology, and management options.

RECENT FINDINGS

Despite high prevalence of myofascial pelvic pain, screening is not routinely performed by providers. Treatment modalities include pelvic floor physical therapy, pelvic floor trigger point injections with anesthetics or botulinum toxin A and cryotherapy. Other adjunct modalities, such as muscle relaxants and intravaginal benzodiazepines, are used, but data regarding their effectiveness is sparse.

SUMMARY

Myofascial pelvic pain is an important, though overlooked component of chronic pelvic pain. Multimodal, multidisciplinary approach including patient education, pelvic floor physical therapy, and trigger point injections is the mainstay of the management of myofascial pelvic pain.

Pelvic Pain of Myofascial Origin in Women: Correlation with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms

Introduction

Women with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and high-tone pelvic floor often experience pain and have positive trigger points upon pelvic floor examination. However, the correlation of these findings has not yet been systematically examined and sufficiently understood. The aim of this cross-sectional study is to examine the correlation of pelvic myofascial pain with LUTS and pelvic floor tone.

Materials and Methods

All participants filled a standardized pelvic floor questionnaire to assess LUTS, which consists of a total of 43 questions regarding bladder, bowel, and sexual function as well as prolapse symptoms. Myofascial trigger points in different muscle groups including pubococcygeus, iliococcygeus, and obturator as well as pelvic floor muscle tone were assessed using a standardized digital examination technique.

Results

110 women were included in the study. There was a significant correlation between pain in various muscle groups and LUTS as well as high-tone pelvic floor muscle. A significant correlation could also be found between high pelvic floor muscle tone and the overall questionnaire score (p < 0.001) as well as the bladder function score (p < 0.001) and various pain scores of the different groups. Individuals with high-tone pelvic floor were more likely to have more LUTS and higher pain scores.

Conclusions

The existence of myofascial pelvic floor trigger points and high pelvic floor muscle tone seem to be reflective of pelvic floor symptoms, as assessed with a standardized pelvic floor questionnaire.

A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of Vaginal Cryotherapy for the Treatment of Pelvic Floor Myofascial Pain

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Pelvic floor myofascial pain (PFMP) is a common but underrecognized component of chronic pelvic pain and pelvic floor disorders symptoms with limited, well-studied treatment modalities. Our objective was to determine the effect of vaginal cryotherapy on PFMP with palpation.

METHODS

Following a standardized PFMP screening examination, individuals with a pain score ≥4/10 in ≥1 of four muscle groups were invited to participate in a randomized controlled trial comparing patients undergoing vaginal cryotherapy with controls. Participants in both arms could choose to participate in a single in-office treatment; a 2-week, at-home daily treatment; or both.

RESULTS

Between March 2019 and September 2021, a total of 163 participants were enrolled and randomized: 80 to cryotherapy, and 83 to the control group. Sixty-three (28 cryotherapy; 35 controls) completed in-office treatment and 56 (32 cryotherapy; 24 controls) completed at-home therapy. In the in-office comparison, mean pain scores decreased significantly in both arms: cryotherapy (5.13 vs 4.10; p=0.02) and controls (5.60 vs 4.72; p<0.01), with a similar magnitude of reduction between arms (p=0.75). In the at-home comparison, mean pain scores decreased significantly in the cryotherapy arm (6.34 vs 4.75; p<0.01), and nonsignificantly in the control arm (5.41 vs 4.66; p=0.07), resulting in a nonsignificant difference between arms (p=0.14).

CONCLUSIONS

Pelvic floor myofascial pain with palpation improved following both a single cryotherapy session and 2 weeks of daily cryotherapy. Interestingly, pain scores also improved with room temperature therapy. Whether these findings reflect a therapeutic effect of both cold and room temperature intravaginal therapy or a placebo effect is unclear but should be explored in larger studies.

Importance of internal vaginal pelvic floor muscle exams for women with external lumbar/hip/pelvic girdle pain

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The relationship between external lumbar, hip, and/or pelvic girdle pain and internal vaginal pelvic floor myofascial pain is not well described. We assessed this relationship in a cohort of adult women.

METHODS

The cohort included women ≥ 18 years old who received care for external lumbar, hip, and/or pelvic girdle pain (reported or elicited on physical examination) who then underwent internal vaginal myofascial levator ani pain assessments, in a tertiary care Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery pelvic pain clinic over a 2-year period (2013 and 2014).

RESULTS

The cohort of 177 women had an average age of 44.9±16.0 years, an average body mass index of 27.2±7.0 kg/m2, and the majority (79.2%) were white. Most patients presented with a chief complaint of pelvic (51.4%), vulvovaginal (18.6%), and/or lumbar (15.3%) pain. Women who reported symptoms of lumbar, hip, or pelvic girdle pain were more likely to have pain on vaginal pelvic floor muscle examination than women without this history (OR, 7.24; 95% CI, 1.95-26.93, p=0.003). The majority (85.9%) of women had bilateral internal vaginal pelvic floor myofascial pain on examination.

CONCLUSIONS

Although participants did not describe "vaginal pelvic floor myofascial pain," the high detection rate for internal vaginal pelvic floor myofascial pain on clinical examination highlights an opportunity to improve treatment planning. These findings suggest that the vaginal pelvic floor muscle examination should be part of the assessment of all women with lumbar, hip, and/or pelvic girdle pain. The relationship between this finding and clinical outcomes following directed treatment warrants additional study.

Are fascial strains involved in chronic pelvic pain syndrome? An exploratory matched case-control study

BACKGROUND

Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) and chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) do not have a definite cause, even if their impact on quality of life was demonstrated. Furthermore, there is evidence of myofascial dysfunctions in a large number of CPP/CPPS, so that the role of fascia can be hypothesized.

METHODS

The aim of this exploratory matched case-control study was to assess whether fascial strains (FS) represent a factor associated with CPP/CPPS. The study followed the "Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology" (STROBE) statement. We collected data from 189 subjects (cases: 58; controls: 131) who attended the clinic. The participants were managed through a 2:1 enrollment ratio. A standardized booklet requested for clinical information, previous FS and the following questionnaires: "National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index" (NIH-CPSI), "Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale" (HADS), "Fear Avoidance Belief Questionnaire" (FABQ). Each subject underwent a palpatory assessment to detect abnormal palpatory findings in the pelvic area.

RESULTS

The analyses showed that episiotomy, genito-urinary infections and surgery had a significantly increased odds ratio (OR) of 4.13, 3.1 and 3.08, respectively. FS as a whole had a significantly raised OR: 2.22 (1.14 to 4.33). The analysis was adjusted for physical activity and for type of job and OR decreased to 1.94 (0.82 to 4.61), losing its significance (p = 0.129). A strong correlation between symptoms' impact and CPP/CPPS was detected (rpbs = 0.710; p < 0.001) and a moderate one (0.3 < rpbs < 0.7; p < 0.001) was found considering anxiety, depression and abnormal palpatory findings.

CONCLUSION

This exploratory study suggests that FS could represent an etiological factor for developing CPP/CPPS. However, further research on fascial dysfunctions and relative implications in CPP/CPPS is needed for confirmation.

Pelvic mapping to explore patterns of chronic pelvic pain

PURPOSE

Chronic pelvic pain syndromes (CPPS) are commonly encountered by urologists and urogynecologists and pose diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Body maps have been helpful adjuncts to verbal descriptions of pain and may serve a role in phenotyping what is known to be a heterogeneous patient population. The aim of this study was to assess whether patterns of pain as marked on a body map of the pelvis exist among common CPPS diagnoses. The secondary aim was to investigate the association between the total number of pain locations marked on the map and clinical indices in patients with 1 to 3 CPPS diagnoses.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data was collected on patients who visited the Northwell Health Pelvic Pain Treatment Center (PPTC) from January to May 2022 and were diagnosed with at least one of four major CPPS diagnoses: interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS), pelvic floor myalgia (PFM), chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS), and vulvodynia. Demographic data as well as survey data from pelvic pain maps, Genitourinary Pain Index (GUPI) forms, and the short form-6 of the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS-6) were recorded. Descriptive statistics among CPPS groups and Pearson correlations among the number of CPPS diagnoses were computed.

RESULTS

One hundred seventy females and 125 males with CPPS were included in the study. Significant cross-over in mapping patterns was notable between IC/BPS and PFM groups, both most commonly marking "abdomen" and "genital" regions. The most distinct pattern of pain was seen in patients with CP/CPPS and in patients with vulvodynia. Among the total sample, as the mean number of pain locations marked within the pelvis increased, GUPI and PCS scores increased (p < 0.05). As the number of CPPS diagnoses increased, the strength of the relationship independently increased.

CONCLUSIONS

Pelvic body mapping demonstrated that different forms of CPPS displayed different distributions of pain, but mapping was not predictive of any diagnostic group. Nevertheless, the pelvic body map proved useful in identifying precise locations of pain and may help uncover regions of pain that cannot be easily communicated. The total number of pain sites marked appeared to correlate with worse clinical features.

Myofascial Pain Syndrome in Women with Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Case-Control Study

There is limited information on myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) and specific symptoms of chronic pelvic pain and, more specifically, dysmenorrhea. The objective of this study was to determine whether patients suffering from primary dysmenorrhea present alterations in mechanosensitivity and pain patterns, and greater presence of MTrPs in the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles. A case-control study was carried out with a total sample of 84 participants distributed based on primary dysmenorrhea and contraceptive treatment. The sample was divided into four groups each comprising 21 women. Data on pain, quality of life, and productivity and work absenteeism were collected; three assessments were made in different phases of the menstrual cycle, to report data on pressure pain threshold, MTrP presence, and referred pain areas. One-way ANOVA tests showed statistically significant differences (p < 0.01) between the groups, for the Physical Health domain and the total score of the SF-12 questionnaire, and for all the domains of the McGill questionnaire; but no significant differences were found in the data from the WPAI-GH questionnaire. Statistically significant data (p < 0.01) were found for mechanosensitivity in the abdominal area and limbs, but not for the lumbar assessment, within the group, with very few significant intergroup differences. The frequency of active MTrPs is higher in the groups of women with primary dysmenorrhea and during the menstrual phase, with the prevalence of myofascial trigger points of the iliococcygeus muscle being especially high in all examination groups (>50%) and higher than 70% in women with primary dysmenorrhea, in the menstrual phase, and the internal obturator muscle (100%) in the menstrual phase. Referred pain areas of the pelvic floor muscles increase in women with primary dysmenorrhea.

Transvaginal Photobiomodulation Improves Pain in Women with Pelvic Muscle Tenderness and Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome: A Preliminary Observational Study

PURPOSE

Interstitial Cystitis/ Bladder Pain Syndrome (IC/BPS) is characterized by pelvic/bladder pain, associated with pelvic muscle tenderness, urgency, frequency, and dysuria. Prior studies show that transvaginal photobiomodulation (TV-PBM) reduces pain in women with chronic pelvic pain (CPP). Our objective was to obtain preliminary data on treatment effect and adherence, in women with IC/BPS who selected TV-PBM therapy for management of pelvic pain.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Before-and-after observational cohort study of women with IC/BPS who received TV-PBM in 17 US practices. Pain was measured using a 0-10 numeric rating scale (NRS). The primary outcome was a minimal clinical important difference (MCID); reduction of overall pelvic pain severity by ≥2 NRS points from baseline compared to after 8 treatments. Cohen d coefficient measured effect size (low effect size d<0.2, medium 0.2<d<0.8, and high d>0.8).

RESULTS

Of 140 patients with IC/BPS who self-selected to start TV-PBM therapy, 89.3% (n=125) completed 4 treatments and 59.3% (n=83) completed 8. Improvement ≥1 NRS point was reported by 73.5% (n=61) and meaningful improvement (≥2 points) was reported by 63.9% (n=53) after 8 treatments. In this group, patients with severe / moderate pain decreased from 83.1% (n=44) to 38.5% (n=20); p<0.001. Pain levels decreased as follows: overall pelvic pain MCID=-2.7, d=1.07, pain with urination MCID=-2.6, d=1.0; pain with exercise MCID=-2.6, d=0.91, pain with intercourse MCID=-2.5, d=0.82.

CONCLUSION

In real-world clinical settings, 2/3 women with IC/BPS who opted to undergo TV-PBM therapy reported significant decrease in pelvic pain and dysuria. These findings are promising; however, controlled studies are needed.

Pelvic floor dysfunctions in women with systemic lupus erythematosus: A cross-sectional study

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

As a result of the impairment of the musculoskeletal system, the pelvic floor muscles are likely compromised in women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We hypothesized that women with SLE would report more symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) and there will be an association between SLE and PFD.

METHODS

An online cross-sectional survey was conducted. Data were collected on demographic and anthropometric characteristics, PFD (urinary incontinence, nocturia, anal incontinence, genital-pelvic pain/penetration disorder and pelvic organ prolapse) and obstetric history using a web-based questionnaire. The groups were compared using the Mann-Whitney test for quantitative variables and the chi-squared test for categorical variables. The association between SLE and PFD was tested using logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 196 women answered the questionnaire (102 with SLE and 94 healthy controls). Women with SLE reported significantly more urinary incontinence, nocturia, anal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and genital-pelvic pain/penetration disorder than the healthy controls (p ≤ 0.05). Women with SLE were 2.8- to 3.0-fold more likely to report genital-pelvic pain/penetration disorder than healthy women.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of PFD was significantly higher in women with SLE compared to healthy women. Thus, PFD seems to be an important problem in women with this disease. An in-depth investigation of these disorders could contribute to the understanding of how SLE impacts pelvic floor function.

Effectiveness of Myofascial Manual Therapies in Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) is defined as the occurrence of chronic pelvic pain (CPP) in the absence of a specific cause. People typically refer to pain associated with urological, gynaecological, and sexual dysfunction, affecting the quality of life. Therefore, we assessed the effectiveness of myofascial manual therapies (MMT) for pain and symptom impact.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted. Findings were reported following the 2020 PRISMA statement. Five databases were searched for RCTs. Studies were independently assessed through a standardized form, and their internal validity was evaluated using the Cochrane risk of bias (RoB) tool. Effect sizes (ES) were calculated post-treatment, and the quality of evidence was assessed through GRADE criteria.

RESULTS

Seven articles were included in the review, five of these in the meta-analysis. None of these studies were completely judged at low RoB. MMT was revealed to be not significantly superior for pain reduction [ES: -0.54 (-1.16; 0.08); p = 0.09], for symptom impact [ES: -0.37 (-0.87; 0.13); p = 0.15], and for quality of life [ES: -0.44 (-1.22, 0.33), p = 0.26] compared to standard care. The quality of evidence was "very low". Other results were presented in a qualitative synthesis.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with CPP/CPPS, MMT is not considered superior to other interventions for pain reduction and symptom impact improvements. However, a positive trend was detected, and we should find confirmation in the future. Further high-quality, double-blinded, sham-controlled RCTs are first necessary to confirm these positive effects and to improve the quality of evidence.

Unsupervised Machine Learning Approaches Reveal Distinct Phenotypes of Perceived Bladder Pain: A Pilot Study

Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is defined as an unpleasant sensation perceived to be related to the bladder with associated urinary symptoms. Due to difficulties discriminating pelvic visceral sensation, IC/BPS likely represents multiple phenotypes with different etiologies that present with overlapping symptomatic manifestations, which complicates clinical management. We hypothesized that unique bladder pain phenotypes or "symptomatic clusters" would be identifiable using machine learning analysis (unsupervised clustering) of validated patient-reported urinary and pain measures. Patients (n = 145) with pelvic pain/discomfort perceived to originate in the bladder and lower urinary tract symptoms answered validated questionnaires [OAB Questionnaire (OAB-q), O'Leary-Sant Indices (ICSI/ICPI), female Genitourinary Pain Index (fGUPI), and Pelvic Floor Disability Index (PFDI)]. In comparison to asymptomatic controls (n = 69), machine learning revealed three bladder pain phenotypes with unique, salient features. The first group chiefly describes urinary frequency and pain with the voiding cycle, in which bladder filling causes pain relieved by bladder emptying. The second group has fluctuating pelvic discomfort and straining to void, urinary frequency and urgency without incontinence, and a sensation of incomplete emptying without urinary retention. Pain in the third group was not associated with voiding, instead being more constant and focused on the urethra and vagina. While not utilized as a feature for clustering, subjects in the second and third groups were significantly younger than subjects in the first group and controls without pain. These phenotypes defined more homogeneous patient subgroups which responded to different therapies on chart review. Current approaches to the management of heterogenous populations of bladder pain patients are often ineffective, discouraging both patients and providers. The granularity of individual phenotypes provided by unsupervised clustering approaches can be exploited to help objectively define more homogeneous patient subgroups. Better differentiation of unique phenotypes within the larger group of pelvic pain patients is needed to move toward improvements in care and a better understanding of the etiologies of these painful symptoms.

Evidence for Early Cyclosporine Treatment for Hunner Lesion Interstitial Cystitis

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to evaluate our experience using cyclosporine A (CyA) in the treatment of Hunner lesion interstitial cystitis (HLIC).

METHODS

Retrospective chart review was performed on patients with HLIC treated with CyA from August 2012 to September 2019. Demographic and clinical variables, number of interstitial cystitis therapies, frequency, nocturia, and bladder pain visual analog scores before and after CyA treatment were collected, as well as the Global Response Assessment (GRA) and the Interstitial Cystitis Symptom Index and Interstitial Cystitis Problem Index. CyA responders were defined as those with moderately or markedly improved GRA scores.

RESULTS

A total of 51 patients with HLIC treated with CyA were identified. Mean follow-up was 3 years (0.36-6.8 years). Seventy-six percent (28 of 37) were female; mean age was 68 years (51-84 years). Before CyA treatment, an average of 8 previous therapies were tried and patients reported an average of 8 of 10 bladder pain. Daytime frequency was 11-20 times per day, and nocturia was 7 times per night. Per the GRA, 84% (31 of 37) were considered CyA responders. Posttherapy Interstitial Cystitis Symptom Index and Interstitial Cystitis Problem Index scores were lower in responders compared with nonresponders (8.9 ± 5.7 vs 21.3 ± 7.0, P = 0.001). Bladder pain, number of hydrodistentions/fulgurations, nocturia, and daytime frequency improved significantly after CyA treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The cyclosporine A response rate was 84%, with most of these patients reporting marked improvement. Bladder pain, daytime frequency, and nocturia were significantly improved after CyA treatment, and the number of interventions after CyA treatment decreased. Cyclosporine A should be considered earlier than fifth-line therapy in HLIC.

A systematic review of diagnostic tests to detect pelvic floor myofascial pain

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Myofascial pain arising from pelvic floor muscles occurs in women with vaginismus, interstitial cystitis and endometriosis but is often overlooked. The aim is to examine alternative diagnostic tests to detect pelvic floor myofascial pain compared with standardized vaginal palpation of pelvic floor muscles as the reference test.

METHODS

A systematic review was prospectively conducted (PROSPERO-CRD42020183092) according to PRISMA guidelines. Databases searched included Ovid Medline 1946-, Embase 1957-, Scopus 1960-, Cochrane Combined, Clinical trials, Google Scholar (top 200 articles), Web of Science, TRIP, BIOSIS, DARE, CINHAL, EmCare, PEDro, ProQuest and EBSCOhost up to July 2020. Articles were independently screened by two authors and assessed for bias using QUASDAS-2 tool.

RESULTS

A total of 26,778 articles were screened and 177 were selected for full text review, of which 5 were selected for final analysis. Five studies included 9694 participants of which 1628 had pelvic floor myofascial pain. Only one study reported data to calculate sensitivities and specificities of the index test, which utilized a score of > 40 on the Central Sensitization Inventory to detect women with pelvic floor myofascial pain and revealed a sensitivity of 34.8% and a specificity of 84.9% compared to the reference test.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review did not reveal any diagnostic test superior to the pre-defined reference test. There is a lack of consensus on the definition of pelvic floor myofascial pain and a lack of a validated diagnostic criteria which must be addressed to progress with meaningful research in this field.

[Diagnosis of interstitial cystitis: practice-orientated diagnostic work-up]

Interstitial cystitis is a chronic orphan disease of the urinary bladder characterised by its main symptoms of bladder pain, persistent urge to void and urinary frequency. Due to a variety of confusable diseases and different pathophysiologies, the diagnosis of IC is still a diagnosis of exclusion and remains a challenge for doctors and patients alike. Patients often experience misdiagnosis and unsuccessful treatment for years. Therefore, the primary goal for these patients with chronic pain must be a rapid diagnosis and initiation of adequate treatment. This article focuses on transferring the consensus-based recommendations of the current German S2k guideline "Diagnosis and Treatment of Interstitial Cystitis" (IC/BPS) (2018 AWMF register No.: 043/050) into a practice-orientated and structured diagnostic work-up process.

Pelvic-floor function, dysfunction, and treatment

The pelvic floor functions as a holistic entity. The organs, bladder, bowel, smooth and striated muscles, nerves, ligaments and other connective tissues are directed cortically and reflexly from various levels of the nervous system. Such holistic integration is essential for the system's multiple functions, for example, pelvic girdle stability, continence, voiding/defecation, and sexuality. Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is related to a variety of pelvic pain syndromes and organ problems of continence and evacuation. Prior to treatment, it is necessary to understand which part(s) of the system may be causing the dysfunction (s) of Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS), pelvic girdle pain, sexual problems, Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS), dysfunctional voiding, constipation, prolapse and incontinence. The interpretation of pelvic floor biomechanics is complex and involves multiple theories. Non-surgical treatment of PFD requires correct diagnosis and correctly supervised pelvic floor training. The aims of this review are to analyze pelvic function and dysfunction. Because it is a holistic and entirely anatomically based system, we have accorded significant weight to the Integral Theory's explanations of function and dysfunction.

Painful Bladder Syndrome/Interstitial Cystitis and High Tone Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

This article provides an overview of 2 conditions that defy straightforward characterization and treatment: interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome often coexists with high tone pelvic floor dysfunction. These conditions are common in gynecologic patients who present with chronic pelvic pain and are often misdiagnosed due to their syndromic nature and amorphous definitions. Clinicians should maintain a high level of suspicion for these processes in patients with chronic pelvic pain or recurrent urinary tract infection symptoms. Optimal treatment uses a multimodal approach to alleviate symptoms.

Safety, tolerability, and efficacy of LiRIS 400 mg in women with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome with or without Hunner lesions

AIMS

Two phase 2 studies were conducted to assess the efficacy and safety of lidocaine-releasing intravesical system (LiRIS) in patients with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) with (Study 001; NCT02395042) or without, (Study 002; NCT02411110) Hunner lesions (HL).

METHODS

Both were multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, and enrolled women aged ≥18 years. In Study 001, patients were randomized 2:1:1 to LiRIS 400 mg/LiRIS 400 mg, placebo/LiRIS 400 mg, or placebo/placebo for a continuous 28 (2 × 14)-day period. In Study 002, patients were randomized 1:1 to LiRIS 400 mg or placebo for a continuous (single treatment) 14-day period.

RESULTS

In total, 59 and 131 patients received treatment in Studies 001 and 002, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in the primary endpoint, the change from baseline to Week 4 of follow-up post-removal in mean daily average bladder numeric rating scale (NRS) pain score in either study (Study 001: placebo/placebo, -1.6; LiRIS/LiRIS, -2.7, p = 0.142; placebo/LiRIS, -2.5, p = 0.319; Study 002: LiRIS -1.2; placebo, -1.5, p = 0.505). There was no statistically significant difference between groups in daily worst NRS pain score, number of micturitions/day or urgency episodes/day. There was no clear trend for reduction in number of HL for LiRIS vs placebo. The frequency of treatment-emergent adverse events was similar between treatment groups in both studies; most were mild or moderate intensity.

CONCLUSION

These studies did not demonstrate a treatment effect of LiRIS 400 mg compared with placebo, either in patients with IC/BPS with HL, or in those without HL.

Current advances and novel research on minimal invasive techniques for musculoskeletal disorders

The present review summarized the current advances and novel research on minimal invasive techniques for musculoskeletal disorders. Different invasive approaches were proposed in the physical therapy field for the management of musculoskeletal disorders, such as ultrasound-guided percutaneous needle electrolysis, dry needling, acupuncture and other invasive therapy techniques, discussing about their worldwide status, safety and interventional ultrasound imaging. Indeed, dry needling may be one of the most useful and studies invasive physical therapy applications in musculoskeletal disorders of different body regions, such as back, upper limb, shoulder, arm, hand, pelvis, lower limb, neck, head, or temporomandibular joint, and multiple soreness location disorders, such as fibromyalgia. In addition, the assessment and treatment by acupuncture or electro-acupuncture was considered and detailed for different conditions such as plantar fasciitis, osteoarthritis, spasticity, myofascial pain syndrome, osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis. As an increasing technique in physical therapy, the use of ultrasound-guided percutaneous needle electrolysis was discussed in injuries of the musculoskeletal system and entrapment neuropathies. Also, ultrasound-guided percutaneous neuromodulation was established as a rising technique combined with ultrasound evaluation of the peripheral nerve system with different clinical applications which need further studies to detail their effectiveness in different musculoskeletal conditions. Thus, invasive physical therapy may be considered as a promising approach with different novel applications in several musculoskeletal disorders and a rising use in the physiotherapy field.

Examination of pelvic floor muscle elasticity in patients with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome using real-time tissue elastography

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The aim was to compare pelvic floor muscle (PFM) elasticity between interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) patients and healthy women using real-time tissue elastography.

METHODS

The subjects were 17 IC/BPS female patients (IC/BPS group; age 34-84 years), 10 healthy middle-aged women (middle-aged group; 50-80 years), and 17 healthy young adult women (young group; 23-37 years). The target sites of elastography were the striated urethral sphincter (SUS) and adipose tissue as the reference site; muscle elasticity was calculated as the strain ratio (SR) of the SUS to the reference site. Evaluations were performed at rest and during PFM contraction. The IC/BPS group completed lower urinary tract symptom and pain questionnaires. SUS SR was compared among the three groups. SUS SR at rest and during PFM contraction was compared among the three groups with the t-test and the Wilcoxon test. Associations between questionnaire results and SUS SR were evaluated by correlation analysis.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in age between the IC/BPS and middle-aged groups, but the young group was significantly younger than the other groups (p < 0.001). SUS SR at rest was significantly higher in the IC/BPS group than in the middle-aged (p = 0.014) and young groups (p = 0.002). Furthermore, in the IC/BPS group, there was no significant difference in SUS SR between at rest and during PFM contraction. SUS SR was not significantly correlated with questionnaire results for lower urinary tract symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

SUS SR at rest was significantly higher in the IC/BPS group than in the young and middle-aged groups.

Effectiveness of Botulinum Toxin for Treatment of Symptomatic Pelvic Floor Myofascial Pain in Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

The aims of the study were to systematically review the literature and to synthesize the evidence for the effectiveness of botulinum toxin injection to the pelvic floor muscles for treating pelvic floor myofascial pain in female patients.

METHODS

This systematic literature search was performed in February 2018 and updated in September 2019. Articles were screened based on predefined criteria: (1) adult population, (2) female patients, (3) treatment of pelvic pain by transvaginal botulinum toxin injection into the pelvic floor, (4) published in English or English translation available, (5) study design including randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and case series with more than 10 participants, and (6) quantitative report of pain scores. Nine studies were included in the primary analysis, and an unpublished study was included in a sensitivity analysis. A random effects model with robust variance estimation was used to estimate the pooled mean difference in patient-reported pain scores after botulinum toxin injection.

RESULTS

A statistically significant reduction in patient-reported pain scores was noted at 6 weeks after botulinum toxin injection (mean difference, 20.3; 95% confidence interval, 11.7-28.9) and continued past 12 weeks (mean difference, 19.4; 95% confidence interval, 14.6-24.2). Significant improvement was noted in secondary outcomes including dyspareunia, dyschezia, and quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review and meta-analysis support the conduct of future, large-scale randomized controlled trials to determine the efficacy and optimize administration of botulinum toxin injections for treatment of pelvic floor myofascial pain and associated symptoms in women.

Blockade of Acid-Sensing Ion Channels Increases Urinary Bladder Capacity With or Without Intravesical Irritation in Mice

We conducted this study to examine whether acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) are involved in the modulation of urinary bladder activity with or without intravesical irritation induced by acetic acid. All in vivo evaluations were conducted during continuous infusion cystometry in decerebrated unanesthetized female mice. During cystometry with a pH 6.3 saline infusion, an i.p. injection of 30 μmol/kg A-317567 (a potent, non-amiloride ASIC blocker) increased the intercontraction interval (ICI) by 30% (P < 0.001), whereas vehicle injection had no effect. An intravesical acetic acid (pH 3.0) infusion induced bladder hyperactivity, with reductions in ICI and maximal voiding pressure (MVP) by 79% (P < 0.0001) and 29% (P < 0.001), respectively. A-317567 (30 μmol/kg i.p.) alleviated hyperreflexia by increasing the acid-shortened ICI by 76% (P < 0.001). This dose produced no effect on MVP under either intravesical pH condition. Further analysis in comparison with vehicle showed that the increase in ICI (or bladder capacity) by the drug was not dependent on bladder compliance. Meanwhile, intravesical perfusion of A-317567 (100 μM) had no effect on bladder activity during pH 6.0 saline infusion cystometry, and drug perfusion at neither 100 μM nor 1 mM produced any effects on bladder hyperreflexia during pH 3.0 acetic acid infusion cystometry. A-317567 has been suggested to display extremely poor penetrability into the central nervous system and thus to be a peripherally active blocker. Taken together, our results suggest that blockade of ASIC signal transduction increases bladder capacity under normal intravesical pH conditions and alleviates bladder hyperreflexia induced by intravesical acidification and that the site responsible for this action is likely to be the dorsal root ganglia.

Treatment of Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome: A Contemporary Review

Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is a debilitating condition affecting approximately 3% of the female population. IC/BPS is defined as an unpleasant sensation (pain, pressure, discomfort) perceived to be related to the urinary bladder, associated with lower urinary tract symptoms for more than six weeks duration, in the absence of infection or other identifiable cause. This condition is known to have a profound negative impact on quality of life. There are few well-studied treatment options and no cure for this condition, which is therefore challenging to treat. The purpose of this narrative review is to summarise the contemporary literature, including the Canadian Urological Association (CUA) and American Urological Association (AUA) guidelines, on various treatment options that exist for IC/BPS, including conservative therapies, oral therapies, intravesical therapies, and more invasive surgical options. Most importantly, this review highlights the need for an individualised, multimodal approach to the treatment of IC/BPS.

Botulinum injections for myofascial pelvic pain

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of botulinum toxin injection in women with myofascial pelvic pain (MFPP) syndrome of the pelvic floor who had failed conservative treatment.

METHODS

This was a retrospective descriptive observational study of 48 consecutive patients receiving botulinum toxin to the pelvic floor for MFPP syndrome in a tertiary teaching hospital over an 8-year period. Trigger points were identified, and botulinum toxin was injected into the pelvic floor at the trigger points in doses ranging from 50 to 200 units. The patient-reported global impression of improvement scale was used to evaluate the success at follow-up, and adverse effects were recorded.

RESULTS

Forty-six women attended for follow-up at 3-6 months. Of these, 34 (74%) reported an improvement in their symptoms (slightly better, much better, very much better), 12 (26%) had no change, and no patients reported worsening of symptoms. One patient (2%) reported transient postoperative faecal incontinence, which resolved after 2 weeks. There appeared to be no difference in outcome between the doses.

CONCLUSIONS

Botulinum toxin injection into the pelvic floor of women with MFPP appears to be beneficial in those who have failed conservative treatment. Prospective studies, including dose-finding studies, are now required.

Myofascial pain syndrome and trigger points: evaluation and treatment in patients with musculoskeletal pain

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Myofascial pain syndrome is a chronic pain condition characterized by the presence of myofascial trigger point, a hyperirritable painful spot involving a limited number of muscle fibers. The literature suggest that myofascial trigger points should be considered peripheral pain generators and this critical review will summarize recent findings concerning the clinical evaluation and the treatment of myofascial trigger points.

RECENT FINDINGS

The clinical features of myofascial trigger points and their contribution to the patient pain and disability have been detailed in several recent studies, which support the clinical relevance of the condition. Recent studies reported that manual palpation to identify MTrPs has good reliability, although some limitations are intrinsic to the diagnostic criteria. During the last decade, a plethora of treatments have been proposed and positive effects on pain and function demonstrated.

SUMMARY

The myofascial trigger point phenomenon has good face validity and is clinically relevant. Clinicians are encouraged to consider the contribution of myofascial trigger points to the patient's pain and disability through a careful medical history and a specific manual examination. Patients with myofascial trigger points will benefit from a multimodal treatment plan including dry needling and manual therapy techniques. Internal and external validity of research within the field must be improved.

The Overactive Pelvic Floor (OPF) and Sexual Dysfunction. Part 2: Evaluation and Treatment of Sexual Dysfunction in OPF Patients

INTRODUCTION

The assessment of pelvic floor muscle (PFM) overactivity is part of a comprehensive evaluation including a detailed history (medical, gynecological history/antecedent), appraisal of the psychosocial contexts of the patient, as well as a musculoskeletal and a neurological examination.

OBJECTIVES

The aims of this article are to review (i) the assessment modalities evaluating pelvic floor function in women and men with disorders associated with an overactive pelvic floor (OPF), and (ii) therapeutic approaches to address OPF, with particular emphases on sexual pain and function.

METHODS

We outline assessment tools that evaluate psychological and cognitive states. We then review the assessment techniques to evaluate PFM involvement including digital palpation, electromyography, manometry, ultrasonography, and dynamometry, including an overview of the indications, efficacy, advantages, and limitations of each instrument. We consider each instrument's utility in research and in clinical settings. We next review the evidence for medical, physiotherapy, and psychological interventions for OPF-related conditions.

RESULTS

Research using these assessment techniques consistently points to findings of high PFM tone among women and men reporting disorders associated with OPF. While higher levels of evidence are needed, options for medical treatment include diazepam suppositories, botulinum toxin A, and other muscle relaxants. Effective psychological therapies include cognitive behavioral therapy, couple therapy, mindfulness, and educational interventions. Effective physiotherapy approaches include PFM exercise with biofeedback, electrotherapy, manual therapy, and the use of dilators. Multimodal approaches have demonstrated efficacy in reducing pain, normalizing PFM tone, and improving sexual function. Multidisciplinary interventions and an integrative approach to the assessment and management of OPF using a biopsychosocial framework are discussed.

CONCLUSION

Although the efficacy of various intervention approaches has been demonstrated, further studies are needed to personalize interventions according to a thorough assessment and determine the optimal combination of psychological, physical, and behavioral modalities. Padoa A, McLean, L, Morin M, et al. The Overactive Pelvic Floor (OPF) and Sexual Dysfunction. Part 2: Evaluation and Treatment of Sexual Dysfunction in OPF Patients. Sex Med 2021;9:76-92.

Application of Adult and Pluripotent Stem Cells in Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome Therapy: Methods and Perspectives

Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is a multifactorial, chronic disease without definite etiology characterized by bladder-related pelvic pain. IC/BPS is associated with pain that negatively affects the quality of life. There are various therapeutic approaches against IC/BPS. However, no efficient therapeutic agent against IC/BPS has been discovered yet. Urothelium dysfunction is one of the key factors of IC/BPS-related pathogenicity. Stem cells, including adult stem cells (ASCs) and pluripotent stem cells (PSCs), such as embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced PSCs (iPSCs), possess the abilities of self-renewal, proliferation, and differentiation into various cell types, including urothelial and other bladder cells. Therefore, stem cells are considered robust candidates for bladder regeneration. This review provides a brief overview of the etiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of IC/BPS as well as a summary of ASCs and PSCs. The potential of ASCs and PSCs in bladder regeneration via differentiation into bladder cells or direct transplantation into the bladder and the possible applications in IC/BPS therapy are described in detail. A better understanding of current studies on stem cells and bladder regeneration will allow further improvement in the approaches of stem cell applications for highly efficient IC/BPS therapy.

How Does Myofascial Physical Therapy Attenuate Pain in Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome?

Background

Chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) is a multifactorial disorder comprising structural and functional muscular abnormalities, a dysfunctional pain system, and psychological distress. Myofascial physical Therapy (MPT) that is targeted at improving pelvic muscle functioning is considered a first line nonpharmacological treatment for CPPS, although the precise mechanisms that lead to symptoms alleviation have not yet been elucidated.

Purpose

This longitudinal study aimed to examine the local and systemic effects of MPT intervention, including biopsychophysiological processes, among CPPS patients.

Methods

The study included 50 CPPS women. Morphologic assessment of the levator ani and quantitative sensory testing of the pain system were applied alongside with evaluation of pain-related psychological factors using designated questionnaires. All measures were evaluated both before and after MPT in 39 patients. The long-term effects of MPT were evaluated by clinical pain reports obtained at 3 and 9 months following MPT that were compared with a nontreated group of 11 untreated CPPS women.

Results

Along with an improvement in the clinical pain intensity (p = 0.001) and sensitivity to experimental pain tests (p = 0.001) following MPT, the results also indicate that MPT has anatomical, psychological, and social therapeutic effects (p = 0.04; p = 0.001; p = 0.01, respectively). Furthermore, clinical pain evaluation at 3 and 9 months after MPT revealed a significant improvement in women who received treatment (p = 0.001).

Conclusions

The findings of this pilot study suggest multisystemic (direct and indirect anatomical, neurophysiological, and psychological) effects of MPT on the multifactorial pain disorder of CPPS and therefore place MPT as a mechanism-based intervention.

Current Treatments for Female Pelvic Floor Dysfunctions

As global population aging, the issue of pelvic floor dysfunctions becomes increasingly. Millions of women were affected every year. The treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction has evolved in the past decade. This review aims to provide the current information on the treatment for female pelvic floor dysfunction, including pelvic organ prolapse (POP), urinary, fecal incontinence (FI), and myofascial pelvic pain among women. We used PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science to search for studies that were related to pelvic floor dysfunction regarding the POP, urinary, FI, and treatments. The development of laparoscopic surgery and synthetic and biological materials for pelvic floor reconstructive surgery were summarized. The surgical outcomes and complications of different pelvic floor reconstructive surgeries were compared. New devices for FI and the potential modified pelvic floor reconstructive surgery were also discussed here. Female pelvic medicine will continue to evolve for better treatment in the future. The pelvic floor reconstructive surgery tends to be minimally invasive approach with synthetic graft use.

Pelvic floor myofascial pain severity and pelvic floor disorder symptom bother: is there a correlation?

BACKGROUND

Pelvic floor myofascial pain, which is predominantly identified in the muscles of the levator ani and obturator internus, has been observed in women with chronic pelvic pain and other pelvic floor disorder symptoms, and is hypothesized to contribute to their symptoms.

OBJECTIVES

To describe the prevalence of pelvic floor myofascial pain in patients presenting with pelvic floor disorder symptoms and to investigate whether severity of pelvic floor myofascial pain on examination correlates with degree of pelvic floor disorder symptom bother.

STUDY DESIGN

All new patients seen at 1 tertiary referral center between 2014 and 2016 were included in this retrospectively assembled cross-sectional study. Pelvic floor myofascial pain was determined by transvaginal palpation of the bilateral obturator internus and levator ani muscles and scored as a discrete number on an 11-point verbal pain rating scale (range, 0-10) at each site. Scores were categorized as none (0), mild (1-3), moderate (4-6), and severe (7-10) for each site. Pelvic floor disorder symptom bother was assessed by the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory short form scores. The correlation between these 2 measures was calculated using Spearman rank and partial rank correlation coefficients.

RESULTS

A total of 912 new patients were evaluated. After exclusion of 79 with an acute urinary tract infection, 833 patients were included in the final analysis. Pelvic floor myofascial pain (pain rated >0 in any muscle group) was identified in 85.0% of patients: 50.4% rated as severe, 25.0% moderate, and 9.6% mild. In unadjusted analyses and those adjusted for postmenopausal status, severity of pelvic floor myofascial pain was significantly correlated with subjective prolapse symptoms such as pelvic pressure and heaviness but not with objective prolapse symptoms (seeing or feeling a vaginal bulge or having to push up on a bulge to start or complete urination) or leading edge. Severity of myofascial pain at several individual pelvic floor sites was also independently correlated with lower urinary tract symptoms, including pain in the lower abdomen (myofascial pain at all sites) and difficulty emptying the bladder (right obturator internus and left levator ani); and with defecatory dysfunction, including sensation of incomplete rectal emptying (pain at all sites combined and the right obturator internus), anal incontinence to flatus (pain at all sites combined), and pain with defecation (pain at all sites combined, and the right obturator internus and left levator ani).

CONCLUSION

Pelvic floor myofascial pain was common in patients seeking evaluation for pelvic floor disorder symptoms. Location and severity of pelvic floor myofascial pain was significantly correlated with degree of symptom bother, even after controlling for postmenopausal status. Given the high prevalence of pelvic floor myofascial pain in these patients and correlation between pain severity and degree of symptom bother, a routine assessment for pelvic floor myofascial pain should be considered for all patients presenting for evaluation of pelvic floor symptoms.

Physical examination techniques for the assessment of pelvic floor myofascial pain: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Myofascial pain is characterized by the presence of trigger points, tenderness to palpation, and local or referred pain, and commonly involves the pelvic floor muscles in men and women. Pelvic floor myofascial pain in the absence of local or referred pain has also been observed in patients with lower urinary tract symptoms, and we have found that many patients report an improvement in these symptoms after receiving myofascial-targeted pelvic floor physical therapy.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to systematically review the literature for examination techniques used to assess pelvic floor myofascial pain in women.

STUDY DESIGN

We performed a systematic literature search using strategies for the concepts of pelvic floor disorders, myofascial pain, and diagnosis in Ovid MEDLINE 1946-, Embase 1947-, Scopus 1960-, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Articles were screened by 3 authors and included if they contained a description of a pelvic myofascial physical examination.

RESULTS

In all, 55 studies met our inclusion criteria. Overall, examination components varied significantly among the included studies and were frequently undefined. A consensus examination guideline was developed based on the available data and includes use of a single digit (62%, 34/55) to perform transvaginal palpation (75%, 41/55) of the levator ani (87%, 48/55) and obturator internus (45%, 25/55) muscles with a patient-reported scale to assess the level of pain to palpation (51%, 28/55).

CONCLUSION

Physical examination methods to evaluate pelvic musculature for presence of myofascial pain varied significantly and were often undefined. Given the known role of pelvic floor myofascial pain in chronic pelvic pain and link between pelvic floor myofascial pain and lower urinary tract symptoms, physicians should be trained to evaluate for pelvic floor myofascial pain as part of their physical examination in patients presenting with these symptoms. Therefore, the development and standardization of a reliable and reproducible examination is needed.

Physical Examination for Men and Women With Urologic Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome: A MAPP (Multidisciplinary Approach to the Study of Chronic Pelvic Pain) Network Study

OBJECTIVE

To examine the feasibility of implementing a standardized, clinically relevant genitourinary examination for both men and women, and to identify physical examination findings characteristic of urologic chronic pelvic pain syndrome (UCPPS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study analyzed 2 samples: men and women with UCPPS who participated in the Multidisciplinary Approach to the Study of Chronic Pelvic Pain (MAPP) Research Network Epidemiology and Phenotyping (EP) Study, and age-matched controls who were either positive for chronic fatigue syndrome or healthy (pain-free). We compared physical examination findings in both positive and healthy controls with UCPPS cases: findings from both the EP examinations and from an extended genitourinary examination.

RESULTS

EP and extended examinations were performed on 143 participants: 62 UCPPS cases (30 women, 32 men), 42 positive controls (15 women, 27 men), and 39 healthy controls (22 women, 17 men). EP examinations showed that pelvic floor tenderness was more prevalent in cases (55.0%) than in positive (14.6%) or healthy controls (10.5%). Extended examinations revealed specific areas of tenderness in the pelvic floor musculature. Cases were also more likely than healthy controls to report tenderness in multiple areas, including suprapubic, symphysis pubis, and posterior superior iliac spine, and on bimanual examination. No comparative findings were specific to biological sex, and no evidence of pudendal neuropathy was observed on extended examination of cases or controls.

CONCLUSION

The extended genitourinary examination is an easily administered addition to the assessment of men and women during evaluation for UCPPS. Physical findings may help to better categorize patients with UCPPS into clinically relevant subgroups for optimal treatment.

Association between lumbopelvic pain and pelvic floor dysfunction in women: A cross sectional study

BACKGROUND

The prevalence, cost and disability associated with lumbopelvic pain continues to rise despite the range of available therapeutic interventions, indicating a deficiency in current approaches. A literature base highlighting a correlation between lumbopelvic pain and pelvic floor function is developing; however, the features that characterize this correlation have yet to be fully established.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence and characteristics of pelvic floor muscle function among women with lumbopelvic pain.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted on non-pregnant women presenting with lumbopelvic pain to one of seven outpatient orthopaedic clinics in Canada. Potential participants underwent a screening process to assess for pelvic floor muscle dysfunction.

RESULTS

A total of 182 women were recruited and 97 were excluded, leaving 85 participants (n = 85). Of these, 95.3% were determined to have some form of pelvic floor dysfunction. Specifically, 71% of the participants had pelvic floor muscle tenderness, 66% had pelvic floor weakness and 41% were found to have a pelvic organ prolapse. Participants with combined low back pain and pelvic girdle pain presented with higher levels of disability and increased characteristics of pelvic floor dysfunction.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings corroborate and extend recent research supporting the hypothesis that a high proportion of pelvic floor muscle dysfunction is present among women with lumbopelvic pain. Specifically, increased pelvic floor muscle pressure-pain sensitivity represented the most frequent characteristic, the clinical implications of which require further study.

Current best practice management of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome

Introduction

Over the last 100 years, the terminology and diagnosis criteria for interstitial cystitis have evolved. Many therapeutic options have changed, but others have endured. This article will review the idea of separating 'classic' Hunner lesion interstitial cystitis (HL IC) from non-Hunner lesion interstitial cystitis and bladder pain syndrome (N-HL IC/BPS) and their respective treatment algorithms.

Methods/Results

A literature search was performed to identify articles and research on HL IC and N-HL IC/BPS including definitions, etiological theories, and treatments. This article is an overview of the existing literature. We also offer insight into how HL IC and N-HL IC/BPS are approached at our tertiary referral center. Additionally, American Urological Association guidelines have been integrated and newer treatment modalities and research will be introduced at the conclusion.

Conclusion

The AUA guidelines have mapped out a stepwise fashion to treat IC/BPS; at our institution we separate patients with HL IC from those with N-HL IC/BPS prior to them entering a treatment pathway. We identify the rarer patient with HL as having classic 'IC'; this cystoscopic finding is critical in guiding treatment. We believe HL IC is a distinct disease from N-HL IC/BPS and therapy should focus on the bladder. The vast majority of patients with N-HL IC/BPS need management of their pelvic floor muscles as the primary therapy, complemented by bladder-directed therapies as needed as well as a multidisciplinary team to manage a variety of other regional/systemic symptoms. Ongoing research into IC/BPS will help us better understand the pathophysiology and phenotypes of this complex disease while exciting and novel research studies are developing promising treatments.

The Pelvis and Beyond: Musculoskeletal Tender Points in Women With Chronic Pelvic Pain

OBJECTIVE

To determine the feasibility of a detailed pain sensitivity assessment using body-wide musculoskeletal tender points (TPs) in women with different types of chronic pelvic pain (CPP) and compare phenotypic differences.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Seventy women with CPP and 35 pain-free women underwent musculoskeletal evaluation of TPs in the pelvic floor, abdomen, groin, inner thigh, and all 18 fibromyalgia TPs. Patients scored elicited pain on a numeric rating scale. TP pain scores were used for intergroup comparison and intragroup correlation.

RESULTS

Women with CPP were grouped as having either bladder pain syndrome (BPS, n=24) or myofascial pelvic pain (MPP, n=11) singularly or both concomitantly (BPS+MPP, n=35). TP pain scores for all evaluations were higher in women with CPP compared with healthy women (P<0.001). Women with BPS+MPP had elevated TP pain for each evaluation compared with women with BPS alone. Pelvic floor and fibromyalgia TP scores correlated strongly in the MPP group, moderately in the BPS+MPP group, and weakly in the BPS alone group. Although some moderate and strong correlations between different body locations were present in all 3 groups, only the BPS+MPP group showed moderate to strong correlations between all body TPs.

CONCLUSIONS

Detailed musculoskeletal evaluation of women with CPP is feasible and well tolerated. Careful phenotyping differentiated BPS, MPP, and BPS+MPP groups. Attending to the differences between these groups clinically may lead to more effective treatment strategies and improved outcomes for patients with CPP.

Pathomechanism of Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome and Mapping the Heterogeneity of Disease

Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is a heterogeneous syndrome which is usually characterized by urinary frequency, nocturia, and bladder pain. Several pathomechanisms have been proposed, including uroepithelial dysfunction, mast cell activation, neurogenic inflammation, autoimmunity, and occult urinary tract infections. It is possible that an inflammatory process alters regulation of urothelial homeostasis and results in dysfunction of the bladder epithelium. Different phenotypes of IC/BPS have been explored including Hunner and non-Hunner type IC, hypersensitive bladder, and bladder pain both with and without functional somatic syndrome. Different gene expressions have also been found in different IC phenotypes. Abnormal expressions of uroplakin, chondroitin sulfate and adhesive protein E-cadherin, tight junction protein zonula occludens-1 in IC/BPS bladder suggest abnormal epithelial differentiation in this bladder disease. Analysis of inflammatory proteins, or cytokines in the urine or serum provides another diagnostic foundation forIC/BPS subtypes. The involvement of IC/BPS in systemic functional somatic syndrome and other pelvic organ diseases might also subdivide subtypes of IC/BPS. Chronic inflammation, increased urothelial apoptosis, and abnormal urothelial function are closely associated in IC bladders. This article reviews recent research on the pathomechanisms of IC, which might help us in mapping the heterogeneity of the disease.

Clinical guidelines for interstitial cystitis and hypersensitive bladder updated in 2015

Clinical guidelines for interstitial cystitis and hypersensitive bladder have been updated as of 2015. The guidelines define interstitial cystitis by the presence of hypersensitive bladder symptoms (discomfort, pressure or pain in the bladder usually associated with urinary frequency and nocturia) and bladder pathology, after excluding other diseases explaining symptoms. Interstitial cystitis is further classified by bladder pathology; either Hunner type interstitial cystitis with Hunner lesions or non-Hunner type interstitial cystitis with mucosal bleeding after distension in the absence of Hunner lesions. Hypersensitive bladder refers to a condition, where hypersensitive bladder symptoms are present, but bladder pathology or other explainable diseases are unproven. Interstitial cystitis and hypersensitive bladder severely affect patients' quality of life as a result of disabling symptoms and/or comorbidities. Reported prevalence suggestive of these disorders varies greatly from 0.01% to >6%. Pathophysiology would be an interaction of multiple factors including urothelial dysfunction, inflammation, neural hyperactivity, exogenous substances and extrabladder disorders. Definite diagnosis of interstitial cystitis and hypersensitive bladder requires cystoscopy with or without hydrodistension. Most of the therapeutic options lack a high level of evidence, leaving a few as recommended therapeutic options.

A multidisciplinary approach to the evaluation and management of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome: an ideal model of care

Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is a complex syndrome that has long been treated with bladder directed therapies, which often fail to address the multiple underlying etiologies that can contribute to this disease process. This disease often involves symptoms that extend beyond the bladder and involve the pelvic floor making it crucial for clinicians to approach the patient using a multidisciplinary team. This article will discuss the underlying etiologies for IC/BPS and describe the multidisciplinary approach which we have found to be extremely successful in managing this patient population.

Disease-related differences in resting-state networks: a comparison between localized provoked vulvodynia, irritable bowel syndrome, and healthy control subjects

Localized provoked vulvodynia (LPVD) affects approximately 16% of the female population, but biological mechanisms underlying symptoms remain unknown. Like in other often comorbid chronic pain disorders, altered sensory processing and modulation of pain, including central sensitization, dysregulation of endogenous pain modulatory systems, and attentional enhancement of pain perception, have been implicated. The aim of this study was to test whether regions of interest showing differences in LPVD compared to healthy control subjects (HCs) in structural and evoked-pain neuroimaging studies, also show alterations during rest when compared with HCs and a chronic pain control group (irritable bowel syndrome [IBS]). Functional magnetic resonance imaging was performed during resting state in 87 age-matched premenopausal females (29 LPVD, 29 HCs, and 29 IBS). Group-independent component analysis and general linear models were applied to investigate group differences in the intrinsic connectivity of regions comprising sensorimotor, salience, and default mode resting-state networks. Subjects with LPVD showed substantial alterations in the intrinsic connectivity of these networks compared with HCs and IBS. The intrinsic connectivity of many of the regions showing group differences during rest were moderately associated with clinical symptom reports in LPVD. Findings were robust to controlling for affect and medication usage. The current findings indicate that subjects with LPVD have alterations in the intrinsic connectivity of regions comprising the sensorimotor, salience, and default mode networks. Although shared brain mechanisms between different chronic pain disorders have been postulated, the current findings suggest that some alterations in functional connectivity may show disease specificity.

Turn-amplitude analysis as a diagnostic test for myofascial syndrome in patients with chronic pelvic pain

Myofascial pain syndrome of the pelvic floor is a common cause of chronic pelvic pain. The etiology of this neuromuscular pain disorder is unknown and symptoms can vary widely. Research attempting to identify an appropriate diagnostic test has, to date, not been fruitful. This study aimed to investigate the utility of turns-amplitude analysis, which involves analyzing electromyography data of the levator ani and anal sphincter muscles, as a diagnostic tool.

BACKGROUND:

Myofascial pain syndrome of the pelvic floor (MPSPF) is a common disease in the context of chronic pelvic pain (CPP); however, there is currently no gold-standard test to diagnose it.

OBJECTIVE:

To validate the turns-amplitude analysis (TAA) as a diagnostic test for MPSPF in patients with CPP.

METHODS:

A case-control study was performed, and patients were consecutively sampled within a specified period of time. A total of 128 patients were included: 64 patients with CPP (32 men and 32 women) and 64 control patients (32 men and 32 women). The same operator conducted all tests. Electromyography of the TAA is based on the collection of motor unit potentials that measure the number of changes in the signal and the mean amplitude of the changes. The electromyogram transfers the data to a graphical point cloud, which enables the patient’s results to be compared with the results of the healthy subjects.

RESULTS:

In patients and control subjects, the sensitivity and specificity of the proposed diagnostic test showed a marked clinical significance: the sensitivity was 83%, and the specificity was 100%. A positive predictive value of 1 (95% CI 1 to 1) and a negative predictive value of 0.85 (95% CI 0.77 to 0.93) were observed.

CONCLUSION:

TAA is a reliable diagnostic test to detect MPSPF. Further studies are needed to reproduce these results.

MRI suggests increased tonicity of the levator ani in women with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

In interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS), pelvic floor dysfunction may contribute significantly to pelvic pain. To determine if pelvic floor hypertonicity manifests alterations on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with IC/BPS, we retrospectively compared pelvic measurements between patients and controls.

METHODS

Fifteen women with IC/BPS and 15 age-matched controls underwent pelvic MRI. Two blinded radiologists measured the pelvic musculature, including the H- and M lines, vaginal length, urethral length and cross-sectional area, levator width and length, and posterior puborectalis angle. MRI measures and clinical factors, such as age, parity, and duration of symptoms, were compared using a paired, two-tailed t test.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in age, parity, or symptom duration between groups. Patients with IC/BPS exhibited shorter levator muscles (right: 5.0 ± 0.7 vs. 5.6 ± 0.8, left: 5.0 ± 0.8 vs. 5.7 ± 0.8 cm, P < 0.002) and a wider posterior puborectalis angle (35.0 ± 8.6 vs. 26.7 ± 7.9°, P < 0.01) compared with controls. The H line was shorter in patients with IC/BPS (7.8 ± 0.8 vs. 8.6 ± 0.9 cm, P < 0.02), while M line did not differ. Total urethral length was similar, but vaginal cuff and bladder neck distances to the H line were longer in patients with IC/BPS (5.7 ± 0.6 vs. 5.1 ± 0.9 cm, P < 0.02; 1.9 ± 0.4 vs. 1.4 ± 0.2 cm, P < 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with IC/BPS have pelvic floor hypertonicity on MRI, which manifests as shortened levator, increased posterior puborectalis angles, and decreased puborectal distances. We identified evidence of pelvic floor hypertonicity in patients with IC/BPS, which may contribute to or amplify pelvic pain. Future studies are necessary to determine the MRI utility in understanding pelvic floor hypertonicity in patients with IC/BPS.