Chronic Proctalgia (Also Called Levator Ani Syndrome) Clinical Trial
Official title:
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Biofeedback, Electrogalvanic Stimulation, and Massage for the Treatment of Chronic Proctalgia
This study has been completed. The following is a brief description of the aims, methods, and
results of the study:
Previous small studies suggest that chronic proctalgia (chronic recurring pain in the anal
canal or rectum), which is also called levator ani syndrome, can be treated with biofeedback
to teach relaxation of pelvic floor muscles, or electrogalvanic stimulation (electrical
stimulation to relax muscles), or massage of pelvic floor muscles. The aim of this study was
to compare the effectiveness of these three treatments, to determine how they work
physiologically, and to identify which patients are most likely to benefit.
Methods: Subjects had to meet the diagnostic criteria for chronic proctalgia and to report
pain at least once a week. They had to also be free of medical or psychiatric disorders that
could explain their chronic proctalgia. Patients qualified to enter the study were separated
into two groups based on whether they reported tenderness when the examining physician
pressed on the levator ani muscles of the pelvic floor. All 157 patients who were enrolled
received 9 sessions of psychological counseling plus biofeedback or electrogalvanic
stimulation or massage. The results of treatment were assessed at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months
after the end of treatment.
n/a