Impact of Pelvic Crossed Syndrome on Primary Dysmenorrhea and Physical Activity

Abstract

Background: Pelvic cross syndrome is characterized by muscle imbalances around the pelvis, resulting in changes in pelvic alignment and movement patterns. Engaging in regular physical activity has been linked to numerous benefits, including reduced menstrual pain severity and improved overall fitness and mobility.  Objective: To determine the impact of pelvic cross syndrome on primary dysmenorrhea and physical activity. Methodology: This comparative cross-sectional analytical design was conducted at the Shalamar School of Allied Health Sciences, Lahore, over a period of six months. A total of 60 females, aged between 18 and 25 years, were selected into two groups: those with pelvic cross syndrome with and without primary dysmenorrhea. Pre-diagnosed participants were selected who were nulliparous, unmarried, and free of chronic illnesses or recent surgeries. Primary dysmenorrhea was diagnosed using a visual analogue scale, with recurrent lower abdominal cramps. Participants with secondary dysmenorrhea, chronic abdominal pain, ovarian cysts, irritable bowel syndrome, or recent surgeries were excluded from the study. Participants were examined for muscle tightness and weakness using 5-minute warm-up, followed by assessments for pelvic cross syndrome prevalence through the manual muscle testing. Primary dysmenorrhea severity was assessed using the WaLIDD score. Participants completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire to assess their physical activity status. The qualitative data were assessed through frequencies and percentages. Results: The study found that 58.3% of students had pelvic cross syndrome, with 42.9% of those also experiencing dysmenorrhea. Among those with both dysmenorrhea and this syndrome, 60% reported severe pain, while 90% of those with pelvic cross syndrome but without dysmenorrhea had low pain. Pelvic tilt was found in 46.7% of participants, and physical activity levels were low in 73% of those with both conditions, while 55% of individuals without either condition reported high physical activity. Conclusion: This concluded that 58.3% of young students developed pelvic cross syndrome, with 42.9% also experiencing dysmenorrhea. Younger age, lower BMI, and muscle imbalances were linked to both pelvic cross syndrome and primary dysmenorrhea, leading to higher pain and lower physical activity. In contrast, those with pelvic cross syndrome but no primary dysmenorrhea reported less pain and higher physical activity.