Electromagnetic therapies for the treatment of pelvic floor disorders: a literature review

Abstract

Electromagnetic therapies have been used in medicine for various purposes, most notably in magnetic resonance imaging. Due to the way in which the electromagnetic field functions, there is a hypothesis that it may be an effective therapy for the treatment of pelvic floor conditions. This review aims to describe pelvic floor conditions potentially treatable by these therapies and their functioning. Pelvic floor disorders were studied by reviewing articles online, comparing usual treatments to electromagnetic therapies. Usual treatments for these disorders were shown and how they compare to electromagnetic therapies. The therapeutic effects are evidenced in the literature, often proving to be superior to the conventional treatment, which is the training of the pelvic floor muscles. The general application method of electromagnetic field therapies, with the patients being positioned in a chair with a generator in the center of the seat, while fully dressed, constitutes a clear advantage in terms of comfort and acceptability, in addition to the absence of adverse effects.