Effects of Hip Muscles Strengthening on Stress Urinary Incontinence Symptoms in Middle-aged Women

Objectives: The aim of the study was to analyze the effect of hip muscle strengthening exercise on SUI symptom severity and strength of pelvic floor muscle in middle-aged women. Material and Methods: An experimental study was conducted among middle-aged women diagnosed with SUI. Participants who met the eligibility selection criteria were recruited using a convenience sampling method and were allocated into two groups, with 20 participants in the control group and 20 participants in the experimental group. The control group received PFMT along with abdominal strengthening exercise, while the experimental group received hip muscle strengthening exercise in addition to PFMT and abdominal strengthening exercise. The intervention was carried out 5 days every week for 8 weeks of duration. The outcome measures were ICIQ-UI SF, Power, Endurance, Repetitions, Fast contractions, Every Contraction Timed (PERFECT) scale, and hip dynamometer. Results: The experimental group demonstrated significant improvements in fast contractions, hip muscle strength, and ICIQ-UI SF severity scores in comparison to the control group, indicating better pelvic floor muscle function and reduced symptom severity. However, no significant difference was observed in power, endurance, repetitions, and ICIQ-UI SF quality of life. These findings suggest that the addition of hip muscle strengthening to pelvic floor muscle training provides better functional benefits than PFMT alone. Conclusion: Incorporating hip muscle strengthening training improves the muscle function of pelvic floor and reduces symptom severity in SUI among middle-aged women.