Showing papers by "Kari Bø published in 2005"

Evaluation of Female Pelvic-Floor Muscle Function and Strength

Abstract: Evaluation of pelvic-floor muscle (PFM) function and strength is necessary (1) to be able to teach and give feedback regarding a woman's ability to contract the PFM and (2) to document changes in PFM function and strength throughout intervention. The aims of this article are to give an overview of methods to assess PFM function and strength and to discuss the responsiveness, reliability, and validity of data obtained with the methods available for clinical practice and research today. Palpation, visual observation, electromyography, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measure different aspects of PFM function. Vaginal palpation is standard when assessing the ability to contract the PFM. However, ultrasound and MRI seem to be more objective measurements of the lifting aspect of the PFM. Dynamometers can measure force directly and may yield more valid measurements of PFM strength than pressure transducers. Further research is needed to establish reliability and validity scores for imaging techniques. Imaging techniques may become important clinical tools in future physical therapist practice and research to measure both pathophysiology and impairment of PFM dysfunction.

Standardization of terminology of pelvic floor muscle function and dysfunction: Report from the pelvic floor clinical assessment group of the International Continence Society

Abstract: STANDARDIZATION This report presents a standardization of terminology of pelvic £oor muscle function and dysfunction. No earlier documents contained de¢nitions on this terminology. These de¢nitions are descriptive and do not imply underlying assumptions that may later prove to be incorrect or incomplete. By following this principle, the International Continence Society aims to facilitate comparison of results and enable eiective communication by investigators performing pelvic £oor muscle studies.

Analysis of quality of interventions in systematic reviews

Abstract: The quality of interventions can affect the results of clinical trials. Reviews of complex interventions need to take this into account

Does the size of the vaginal probe affect measurement of pelvic floor muscle strength

Abstract: Background. The most commonly used method to measure pelvic floor muscle (PFM) strength is vaginal squeeze pressure. There are, however, several apparatuses available for this purpose, and sizes of the probes differ significantly. The aim of the present investigation was to assess whether the size of two commonly used vaginal probes influences measurement of PFM strength. Methods. Twenty female physical therapy students, mean age 25.1 years (range 21-38), participated in the study. All were able to contract the PFM, as assessed by means of vaginal palpation and observation of inward movement of the perineum. Two measuring devices with different lengths and diameters, the Peritron and the Camtech, were used in order to assess vaginal squeeze pressure. Each woman performed six contractions with each apparatus. Results. Mean maximum squeeze pressure for the whole group with the Camtech was 19.7 cm H 2 O (95% CI: 16.5-22.9) and with the Peritron 36.5 cm H 2 O (95% CI: 31.7-41.3), P < 0.01. Nine women preferre...