Methodology of visceral rehabilitation
Module METHODS AND TECHNIQUES OF URO-GYNAECOLOGY REHABILITATION

Academic Year 2025/2026 - Teacher: RITA BELLA

Expected Learning Outcomes

Expected Learning Outcomes (Dublin Descriptors)

1. Knowledge and Understanding
The student is expected to acquire fundamental knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the pelvic floor, with particular reference to the main mechanisms underlying urinary incontinence and the most common urogynecological dysfunctions. They should also understand the principles of pelvic-perineal examination and therapeutic exercise within a rehabilitation context.

2. Applying Knowledge and Understanding
Under supervision and within the limits of their professional scope, the student will be able to contribute to the functional assessment of the pelvic floor through basic pelvic-perineal examination and to apply therapeutic exercise protocols for the treatment of urogynecological dysfunctions.

3. Making Judgements
The student will develop the ability to recognize the main signs and symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunctions, guiding rehabilitation decisions according to clinical guidelines and recommendations, and identifying when referral to other healthcare professionals is appropriate.

4. Communication Skills
The student will be able to establish an appropriate therapeutic relationship, communicating clearly and respectfully with patients, providing accurate instructions for exercise performance, and ensuring attention to ethical principles and confidentiality.

5. Learning Skills
The student will develop autonomous learning skills necessary for continuous professional development, with particular reference to evidence-based practice in pelvic floor rehabilitation.

Course Structure

Frontal Lessons

Required Prerequisites

Knowledge of the anatomy of the pelvic floor muscles.  Knowledge of the anatomy and physiopathology of the uro-genital system (mandatory)

Attendance of Lessons

Mandatory

Detailed Course Content

Pelviperineal examination for the evaluation of female and male urinary incontinence: anamnesis, evaluation of symptoms, physical examination. Therapeutic exercise of the pelvic floor: awareness of muscle recruitment, position of the pelvis. Type of exercises: knack, counter-resistance exercises, recruitment of respiratory muscles, non-generating techniques to increase intra-abdominal pressure, breathing exercises and postural re-education. Instrumental re-education of the pelvic floor: electrostimulation, biofeedback.

Textbook Information

1. Autori: Donatella Giraudo- Gianfranco Lamberti Titolo: Incontinenza urinaria femminile . Manuale per la riabilitazione. Edizione: Edi -Ermes II edizione, 2021 (reference book)

2. Autrice: Arianna Bortolami
Titolo: Riabilitazione del pavimento pelvico Edra Spa, 2022 (reference book)

Course Planning

 SubjectsText References
1Pelviperineal examination for the evaluation of female and male urinary incontinence: anamnesis, evaluation of symptoms, physical examination.Autori: Donatella Giraudo- Gianfranco LambertiTitolo: Incontinenza urinaria femminile . Manuale per la riabilitazione. Edizione: Edi -Ermes II edizione, 2021
2Therapeutic exercise of the pelvic floor: awareness of muscle recruitment, position of the pelvis.Autori: Donatella Giraudo- Gianfranco LambertiTitolo: Incontinenza urinaria femminile . Manuale per la riabilitazione. Edizione: Edi -Ermes II edizione, 2021
3Type of exercises: knack, counter-resistance exercises, recruitment of respiratory muscles, non-generating techniques to increase intra-abdominal pressure, breathing exercises and postural re-education.Autori: Donatella Giraudo- Gianfranco Lamberti Titolo: Incontinenza urinaria femminile . Manuale per la riabilitazione. Edizione: Edi -Ermes II edizione, 2021
4Instrumental re-education of the pelvic floor: electrostimulation, biofeedback.Autrice: Arianna BortolamiTitolo: Riabilitazione del pavimento pelvico Edra Spa, 2022

Learning Assessment

Learning Assessment Procedures

Oral exam and on-going evaluation

Oral exam. Elements to be evaluated: relevance of the answers, quality of their contents, ability to connect with other topics within the program, ability to report examples, quality of technical language, and overall expressive ability.

To guarantee equal opportunities and in compliance with current laws, students can request a meeting in order to plan any compensatory and/or dispensatory measure, according to the educational goals and specific needs. In this case, it is advisable to contact the CInAP (Centre for Active and Participated Integration - Services for Disabilities and/or SLD) professor of the Department where the Degree Course is included

Examples of frequently asked questions and / or exercises

1. Awareness of the perineal musculature and its possible movements

2. Protocol for the assessment of female urinary incontinence

3. Voluntary Early Contraction

4. Alteration of the breathing pattern.

VERSIONE IN ITALIANO