Hypothesis / aims of study
Null Hypothesis (H₀):
There is no statistically significant difference in Overactive Bladder Symptom Scores (OABSS) before and after implementing the structured intervention protocol in adult females.
Alternative Hypothesis (H₁):
There is a statistically significant improvement in Overactive Bladder Symptom Scores (OABSS) following the implementation of the structured intervention protocol in adult females.
Aim of the Study:
To design and evaluate the effectiveness of a structured, multi-component intervention protocol incorporating pelvic floor muscle training, yogic postures, bladder retraining techniques, and dietary modifications in reducing symptoms and improving the management of Overactive Bladder (OAB) in adult females.
Study design, materials and methods
Study Design:
This study was designed as an interventional, single-group, pre-post study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of a structured physio therapeutic protocol in reducing symptoms of Overactive Bladder (OAB) among adult females.
Study Setting:
Community-based settings in and around Rajkot, Gujarat, India, including voluntary female participants recruited via online and offline screening methods
Study Duration:
6 months
Sample Size:
A total of 40 female participants aged 18 years and above were included in the study, based on the eligibility criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
Females aged 18 years and above
OAB-v8 questionnaire score of ≥8
Willingness to participate and provide informed consent
Exclusion Criteria:
Pregnant women
Individuals using intrauterine devices
Participants with urinary tract infections or renal stones
Uncooperative individuals
Materials Used:
Exercise mat and chair for exercise demonstrations
Outcome Measures:
Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS)
OAB-v8 Questionnaire (used for initial screening)
Methodology:
Ethical Approval was obtained from the Institutional Ethics Committee of RK University
Recruitment and Screening:
OAB-v8 questionnaire was distributed among females aged 18 and above via Google Forms and direct distribution.
Based on scores (≥8), eligible participants were contacted and enrolled after written informed consent.
Pre-Intervention Assessment:
Baseline OAB symptoms were recorded using the OAB Symptom Score (OABSS).
Intervention Protocol (3 Weeks):
Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (PFMT) – max holds and quick flicks
Elevator Exercise – step wise contraction and relaxation
Yoga Asanas – including Tadasana, Utkatasana, Trikonasana, Setubandhasana, Malasana, Baddhakonasana
Bladder Retraining – timed voiding, urge control, double voiding
Dietary Modifications – reducing bladder irritants, optimizing fluid intake
Two supervised sessions per week were conducted (total 6 sessions). Participants were instructed to continue home exercises and lifestyle strategies on non-supervised days.
OABSS was re-administered after 3 weeks to evaluate changes.
Interpretation of results
The structured intervention protocol, which included pelvic floor muscle training, yogasanas, bladder retraining, and dietary modifications, demonstrated significant improvement in OAB symptoms. The effectiveness was evident across various age groups and BMI categories, with the highest impact seen in women with advanced age and higher BMI.
Concluding message
The structured physiotherapy-based intervention—comprising pelvic floor muscle training, specific yogasanas, bladder retraining techniques, and dietary modifications—proved to be effective in significantly reducing the symptoms of Overactive Bladder in adult females. The protocol not only demonstrated statistical and clinical significance but also showed consistent benefits across different age groups and BMI classifications.
This evidence-based approach offers a safe, non-pharmacological, and home-manageable strategy for the management and prevention of Overactive Bladder.