Correlation between the severity of female urinary incontinence and concomitant morbidities: A multi-center cross-sectional clinical study

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to identify the relationship between urinary incontinence (UI) and low back pain (LBP) discomfort and disability, static balance, and demographic factors. Methods: A total of 348 women aged 20-80 years were included in this cross-sectional study. The general characteristics of the subjects and the main outcome (UI condition, LBP discomfort, LBP disability, and static balance ability) were assessed by using clinical questionnaires and assessment tools. Results: Of all the subjects, 22.8% had experienced UI. Women with UI showed a significantly higher relationship of LBP and disability, and static balance ability (P<0.01). We found a significant correlation between UI, age, LBP and disability, and static balance ability (P<0.01). Conclusions: These findings suggest that UI correlates negatively with LBP discomfort, LBP disability, and static balance ability. Further studies should focus on the identification of the precise mechanisms underlying UI and its related physical symptoms and on the development of therapeutic strategies to manage this condition. © 2010 Korean Continence Society.