The effect of electrical stimulation of the pelvic floor combined with acupuncture on urinary dysfunction in spinal cord injury patients

Abstract

Objective To observe the effect of electrical stimulation of the pelvic floor muscles (PES) combined with acupuncture on urinary dysfunction in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). Methods Sixty-two patients with SCI were randomly divided into a treatment group ( n =31 ) and a control group ( n =31 ).All subjects received routine bladder function training and a drinking water schedule for 8 weeks.In addition,the treatment group was given PES 30-40 min/d 6 times/week and acupuncture for 30 min/d,6 times/week for the 8 weeks.Residual volume of urine was evaluated using ultrasound and a daily voiding diary.Uurodynamic examinations and catheter extraction were used to assess the urinary function pre- and post-treatment. Results No significant difference was found between the two groups before treatment,but after 8 weeks of treatment the residual volume of urine detected by ultrasound and voiding frequency were significantly lower in the treatment group than in the control group.First desire to urinate and maximal urinary bladder capacities in the treatment group were also significant higher than in the control group.The efficacy of treatment was also sustained significantly longer in the treatment group. Conclusion PES combined with acupuncture therapy is more effective than routine bladder function training for SCI patients with urinary dysfunction. Key words: Pelvic floor muscles; Electrical stimulation; Acupuncture; Spinal cord injury ; Urinary dysfunction