Abstract: |
Background: Abdominal Hypopressive Technique (AHT), initially indicated for the treatment of pelvic floor disorders, has become widely used in Europe, but there is low quality scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of this method. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine if scientific evidence support the use of AHT in the prevention and treatment of pelvic floor and spine disorders. Methods: Studies investigating the effect of AHT in any pathology were searched specifically. Studies reporting AHT alone or AHT included with other techniques were included in the review. Main results: Nine studies meeting the inclusion criteria were classified in two groups: the first consisting of pelvic floor dysfunctions (pelvic organ prolapse, prostate cancer, obstetric fistula) studies, and the second one, 3 studies that used AHT in patients with spine dysfunctions (idiopathic scoliosis). From included studies, there were 4 randomized controlled trials, 1 non-randomized clinical trial, 2 cohort studies and 2 cases reports. AHT in pelvic floor dysfunctions showed significant differences compared to control, but no additional effects were seen combined with pelvic floor muscle training. In spinal dysfunctions no significant differences were seen compared to other techniques. Conclusion: Although there are some indications that AHT might be used as an adjunctive treatment for pelvic floor dysfunctions, current evidence does not support the use of AHT in the treatment of spine disorders. Further research should be focus on conducting high methodological and interventional quality studies to determine the effectiveness of this method. |