Effects of Aerobics Versus Core Stability Exercises for the Management of Primary Dysmenorrhea

Objective: To compare the effects of aerobics and core stability exercises for the management of primary dysmenorrhea. Methodology: The study design was quasi-experimental, conducted in Yahya gym, Lahore, from February 2019 to July 2019. The sampling technique employed was non-probability convenient sampling with a sample size of 42 females within 18-30 years who had primary dysmenorrhea. The subjects were assigned into two groups. Group A was treated with aerobic exercises, while Group B was treated with core stability exercises with eight weeks workout plan and the results of three menstrual cycles were recorded. Stretching maneuvers were added as a standard treatment to both groups. Data were collected after 12 weeks and recorded for three menstrual cycles. Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) was used to measure pain intensity. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS v.25. Results: Mean age of group A vs. group B participants was 25.23 ±2.64 vs. 21.38±3.41 years respectively. Mean BMI score of group A participants was 21.38±2.14 while for group B participants mean BMI score was 21.65±1.99 Kg/m2. Conclusion: This study concludes that both aerobic exercises and core stability exercises are effective to reduce the intensity of pain in primary dysmenorrhea. However aerobic exercises showed relatively better results in term of mean difference of NPRS score across both groups. Keywords: Menstruation, Primary dysmenorrhea, Exercise, Pain.