Pelvic Floor Muscle Training to Treat Urinary Incontinence in Women with Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1 A 12-Week Feasibility and Acceptability Study

What this Trial Is About

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 DM1 is a neuromuscular disorder that can affect multiple systems, including the urinary system through pelvic floor muscles PFM. This study evaluates the feasibility and acceptability of pelvic floor muscle training to reduce urinary incontinence in women with DM1. The research aims to explore whether strengthening these muscles can improve symptoms and quality of life in this specific population, as this approach has not been previously studied in DM1 patients. Participants will undergo a 12-week pelvic floor muscle training program involving weekly 60-minute sessions with an experienced physiotherapist. These sessions include exercises with biofeedback, education, and a home exercise program. The study focuses on a single group of 12 women diagnosed with adult phenotype DM1 and experiencing urinary incontinence. Throughout the study, participants adherence to treatment sessions and home exercises will be tracked. Assessments at baseline and after the 12-week program will measure urinary incontinence frequency, pelvic floor muscle function and size, urogynecological symptoms, quality of life impact, and participants overall satisfaction and perceived improvement. The study also monitors recruitment, retention, and acceptability of the intervention, with follow-up evaluations two weeks post-treatment.

Pelvic Floor Muscle Training for Women with Myotonic Dystrophy