Background/Purpose Endometriosis is a non-curable disease affecting 10 million women in the U. S. Fragments of the uterine lining remain in the body instead of being expelled during menstruation causing pelvic pain and infertility. The purpose of this non-experimental case study was to determine the effects of a diet, exercise, and weight control program on endometriosis pain reduction in one diagnosed female participant.
Method Data was recorded 5 days per week for 3 months on a code sheet. The 90 minute daily exercise regime included aerobic activity and strength training. Exercise intensity was recorded from 6-20 (20 = the highest) using Borg's Scale of Perceived Exertion. Weight was measured and recorded in pounds on a balanced scale and analyzed using the Metropolitan Life Table. A physician prescribed diet was recorded daily. Morning and evening pain levels were recorded from 1-10 (10 = severe) using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale.
Analysis/Results The results of the diet, exercise program, and the exercise intensity levels (range of 12-14) were consistent. Weight was reduced 10 lbs. (137 lbs.-127 lbs) to an “average” weight category. Average weekly pain levels were consistently reduced from the first to the last week. The morning pain levels were reduced 3.5 points (5.8 to 2.3) and the evening levels were reduced 2 points (3.7 to 1.7).
Conclusions The program reduced endometriosis pain levels in the female patients. These findings suggest an effective diet, exercise, and weight control program may reduce female endometriosis pain but further research is recommended with more participants.