EFFECT OF PELVIC PHYSIOTHERAPY ON QUALITY OF LIFE AND PREVENTION OF URINARY INCONTINENCE IN ELDERLY PATIENTS

Abstract

Introduction: Pelvic physiotherapy is a specialty focused on the conservative treatment of urinary incontinence in women, recognized by the Federal Council of Physiotherapy (COFFITO) since 2011. Objective: To demonstrate the importance and effectiveness of pelvic physiotherapy in the treatment of urinary incontinence in elderly women, exploring various therapeutic approaches. Materials and Methods: A bibliographic review based on articles published between 2018 and 2024, using sources such as BVS, ScieLO, and Google Scholar, and keywords such as "Pelvic Physiotherapy," "Elderly Patients," and "Urinary Incontinence." Fifteen relevant publications addressing the effectiveness of pelvic physiotherapy in elderly women were selected. Results: The analyzed studies demonstrate that different treatment protocols, including pelvic floor muscle strengthening exercises, electrostimulation, biofeedback, and behavioral therapy, are effective in improving the quality of life and preventing urinary incontinence in elderly women. Conclusion: Pelvic physiotherapy, with its various techniques, is essential for the conservative treatment of urinary incontinence in elderly women, providing significant improvements in these patients' quality of life.