Exploring the exercise dose to induce symptomatic and biomarker change in endometriosis: A protocol for a randomised controlled trial.
Not reported in abstract.
Where it sits
this study against the rest of the slu-pp-332 (exercise mimetic) corpusSummary and findings
This study aims to explore the exercise dose required to induce symptomatic and biomarker changes in women with endometriosis. Fifty women with clinically confirmed endometriosis will be randomly allocated into four groups, with interventions lasting 12 weeks. The study will assess symptom severity and biomarkers pre- and post-intervention.
Abstract
Exercise may be an effective tool to improve symptoms and quality of life in those with endometriosis. However, the optimal dose to elicit such changes is unknown. This study will explore the critical threshold of exercise dose required to elicit symptomatic and biomarker changes in women with endometriosis, particularly for those who may be disadvantaged through spatial and aspatial factors. Fifty women with clinically confirmed endometriosis will be randomly allocated into one of four groups: a passive control, active control (yoga), short duration walking and yoga, long duration walking and yoga. Participants in the three active groups will complete 12 weeks of exercise. Symptom severity (chronic) and biomarkers will be assessed pre-post intervention; adherence, and symptom impact (acute) will be assessed each week.
Background
This paper addresses the clinical question of the optimal exercise dose required to improve symptoms and quality of life in women with endometriosis. Previous studies have suggested that exercise may benefit individuals with endometriosis, but the specific dose needed to achieve these benefits remains unclear. Understanding the critical threshold of exercise dose is essential for developing effective interventions for this population.
Methods
The study is designed as a randomized controlled trial involving 50 women with clinically confirmed endometriosis. Participants will be allocated into four groups: a passive control group, an active control group practicing yoga, and two exercise intervention groups performing short and long duration walking and yoga. The duration of the intervention is set for 12 weeks, with symptom severity and biomarkers assessed before and after the intervention.
Results
Not reported in abstract.
Interpretation
The study aims to fill a gap in the literature regarding exercise interventions for endometriosis, but without specific results, it is difficult to assess the clinical significance of the findings. The potential for small effect sizes exists, particularly given the varied nature of exercise interventions. Limitations such as sample size and the nature of the interventions may confound the conclusions drawn from this study.
Key findings
- 50 women with clinically confirmed endometriosis will be randomly allocated into one of four groups.
- Participants in the three active groups will complete 12 weeks of exercise.
- Symptom severity and biomarkers will be assessed pre-post intervention.
Limitations
- sample size of 50 may limit generalizability
- not yet reported results
- 12-week follow-up may not capture long-term effects