Effect of Connective Tissue Massage on Premenstrual Syndrome

Premenstrual syndrome is a collection of emotional, physiological and behavioral symptoms that develop around the end of the luteal phase and fade away with or after mensturation.

The physiological effects of connective tissue massage (CTM) are both local and general. Local effects include release of histamine from mast cells which leads to a triple response, local swelling and arteriolar dilatation mediated by local axon reflexes. The increased blood flow to the region assists resolution of subacute or chronic inflammation and reduces pain by removing nocigenic chemicals from the tissues. The mechanical distortions produced by CTM strokes help to mobilize connective tissue and improve function.

Few studies have investigated the effect of the CTM on premenstrual syndrome in adolescent females. So this study will be conducted to add new information about the effect of connective tissue massage on premenstrual syndrome, which may help adolescent females suffering from this syndrome in decreasing their symptoms, thus adding new information to the field of physical therapy.

Inclusion criteria

• Virgin adolescent females diagnosed with premenstrual syndrome.
• Their age will be ranged from 17-25 years (3 years post puberty).
• Their body mass index (BMI) will be less than 30 kg/m2 .
• All are of regular menstrual cycles.
• All of them suffering from moderate and severe PMS.

Exclusion criteria

Participants will be excluded from this study if they have

• Any pathological finding in the pelvic cavity as polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, and pelvic inflammatory diseases.
• Irregular menstruation.
• Any history of gynecological intervention.
• Open wounds, weak/broken bones or fractures.