About this trial
This randomized, assessor-blinded, four-arm, parallel-group controlled trial aims to compare the effects of vibration therapy, abdominal massage, and myofascial release with an education-only control intervention in women with primary dysmenorrhea. Seventy-two women aged 18 to 30 years will be randomized in a 1:1:1:1 ratio. All participants will receive standard education about primary dysmenorrhea. The three intervention groups will additionally receive their assigned treatment twice weekly for 12 weeks, covering three menstrual cycles. Menstrual pain, pain characteristics, pressure pain threshold, menstrual symptoms, and symptoms associated with central sensitization will be evaluated at baseline and after the intervention by a blinded assessor.
Eligibility criteria
Qualifiers
Female participants aged 18 to 30 years.
Having regular menstrual cycles during the previous 6 months.
Having a diagnosis consistent with primary dysmenorrhea following evaluation by an obstetrician and gynecologist.
Experiencing menstrual pain in at least 2 of the previous 3 menstrual cycles.
Disqualifiers
Secondary dysmenorrhea.
Diagnosis of endometriosis, uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, or pelvic inflammatory disease.
History of gynecological surgery.
Pregnancy or suspected pregnancy.
Trial design
Treatments tested in this trial
- Vibration Therapy Group
- Abdominal Massage
- Myofascial Release
- Education