The Effect of Pilates Stabilization Exercise and Kinesio taping on the Dysmenorrhea and Prostaglandin F2α of Female University Students

This study, based on physical therapy interventions for menstruation disorders, observed the effect of Pilates stabilization exercises and Kinesio taping on dysmenorrhea and prostaglandin $F2{\alpha}$ levels. Female college students (n=37) who had >70 points on the mood disorder questionnaire (MDQ) and >4 points on the visual analogue scale (VAS) were divided into three different groups, the Pilates group (PG, n= 13), Pilates and Taping group (PTG, n=12), Taping group (TG, n=12). Pilates and taping were performed 3 times a week for 6 weeks. Pre- and post-menstruation difficulties were measured through the MDQ. Changes in blood prostaglandin $F2{\alpha}$ levels were also measured. Changes in pre- and post-menstrual pain and prostaglandin $F2{\alpha}$ levels were significantly reduced in the PG, PTG, and TG. Changes in pre- and post-menstrual pain and prostaglandin $F2{\alpha}$ levels resulted in significant differences in the PTG and TG. Dysmenorrhea and prostaglandin $F2{\alpha}$ levels were significantly decreased in the TG than in the PTG. These findings suggest that Pilates stabilization exercises and Kinesio taping are effective in decreasing menstrual difficulties and pain in female college students.