Efficacy of Combined Interferential Therapy and Electronic Cupping Therapy for Chronic Constipation Management

Efficacy of Combined Interferential Therapy and Electronic Cupping Therapy for Chronic Constipation Management

Constipation is a common gastrointestinal issue affecting individuals worldwide. Interferential therapy, a form of electrotherapy, has been suggested to have potential benefits in improving gastrointestinal motility and relieving constipation symptoms. Introducing of a new method like electronic cupping therapy with interferential therapy may optimize the therapeutic outcomes by potentially increasing bowel movements and improving overall gastrointestinal function.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a combined treatment regimen that includes interferential therapy and electronic cupping therapy on the symptoms of chronic constipation, as well as gastrointestinal health outcomes.

Methods: This study involved 110 patients with chronic constipation, consisting of 60 females and 50 males, ranging in age from 20 to 40 years. Each participant underwent evaluations using Abdominal Ultrasonography and a standardized constipation scoring system. All participants were allocated into three groups; Group (A) received interferential therapy with aerobic exercises, Group (B) received electronic cupping therapy and aerobic exercise in the form of treadmill exercise and stationary bicycle 3 sessions/week for four weeks, and Group (c) received interferential therapy, electronic cupping therapy in addition to aerobic exercises.

Inclusion Criteria:

• history of Chronic Constipation (CC), as defined by either experiencing two or fewer Complete Spontaneous Bowel Movements (CSBMs) per week for a minimum of 6 consecutive months before the screening visit
• Reporting a sensation of incomplete evacuation or straining during at least a quarter of their bowel movements (according to the generally accepted definition of constipation).
• Patients must have had CC persisting for more than 6 months, failed to respond to or be intolerant of medical treatment for at least 3 months

Exclusion Criteria:

• pregnant or lactating women
• Chronic Constipation (CC) resulting from anorectal malformations such as colorectal or anal organic lesions, pelvic floor disorders requiring surgical intervention as determined by the investigator (such as rectal prolapse, rectocele, or enterocele)
• presence of implanted electronic devices like cardiac pacemakers, defibrillators, cardiac pumps, or spinal stimulators
• CC attributable to medications or neurologic, endocrine, or metabolic conditions
• prior history of partial colectomy; conditions like megacolon, megarectum, or colonic inertia
• skin abnormalities that hinder the placement of electrodes
• women lacking adequate contraception (hormonal or intrauterine device).