The Relationship Between Pelvic Floor Dysfunction and Quality of Life, Functional Capacity, Gait Parameters, and Static Balance in Children With Defecation Disorders

Defecation disorders are among the most common gastrointestinal disorders in children and are associated with impaired pelvic floor function, reduced functional capacity, altered gait characteristics, balance impairments, and decreased health-related quality of life. Despite the recognized role of pelvic floor dysfunction in children with defecation disorders, the relationship between pelvic floor function and physical performance outcomes has not been comprehensively investigated.

This observational study aims to evaluate the relationship between pelvic floor function and gait parameters, plantar pressure distribution, static balance, functional capacity, and health-related quality of life in children with defecation disorders.

Eligible participants will undergo a comprehensive baseline assessment. Demographic and clinical characteristics, including age, sex, anthropometric measurements, medical history, and defecation characteristics, will be recorded. Defecation disorders will be evaluated according to the Rome IV diagnostic criteria.

Pelvic floor function will be assessed using surface electromyography and the Kelly Continence Score. Functional capacity, gait parameters, plantar pressure distribution, static balance, and health-related quality of life will be evaluated using validated assessment methods. The relationships between pelvic floor function and the clinical and functional outcome measures will be analyzed.

Inclusion criteria

• Being between 6 and 18 years of age
• Diagnosed with a defecation disorder by a pediatric surgeon according to Rome IV clinical criteria
• Having a history of constipation or fecal incontinence lasting at least 3 months
• Cognitive and auditory abilities sufficient to understand and follow simple verbal commands
• Written consent provided by the child's parent or legal guardian

Exclusion criteria

• Having orthopedic or neurological conditions that would impair lower extremity movements or walking
• History of surgery within the last 6 months
• History of neurological disorders (e.g., cerebral palsy, epilepsy, neuromuscular diseases)
• Having visual or hearing impairments severe enough to prevent participation in the study