A Study to Evaluate the Effect of Back Muscle Strengthening Exercises on Pain Among Post-Hysterectomy Women Admitted in Tertiary Care Hospitals.

Hysterectomy, the surgical removal of the uterus, is one of the most common gynecological procedures performed for conditions, such as fibroids, endometriosis, and abnormal uterine bleeding.[ 1 ] While effective in treating these underlying conditions, the postoperative period is often marked by significant pain, reduced mobility, and reliance on analgesics, which can delay recovery.[ 2 ] Physiotherapeutic interventions, particularly back muscle strengthening exercises, have emerged as promising strategies to alleviate postoperative pain and enhance functional recovery.[ 3 ] These exercises aim to improve spinal stability and muscular support, potentially reducing discomfort associated with immobility and poor posture post-surgery.[ 4 5 ] However, the application of such interventions is not yet routine in nursing practice, and limited studies have explored their effectiveness, specifically among post-hysterectomy patients. This study was therefore undertaken to evaluate the effect of back muscle strengthening exercises on pain levels among women recovering from hysterectomy in a tertiary care hospital setting.

This study assessed the impact of back muscle strengthening exercises on postoperative pain levels among 60 post-hysterectomy women. The experimental group ( n = 30) underwent a structured exercise regimen, while the control group ( n = 30) received routine care. Key findings revealed a significant reduction in pain scores in the experimental group, with noteworthy associations across age, type of surgery, and education level. Table 1 demonstrates the demographic characteristics of the participants, highlighting that most women were in the 41–50 years age group, had secondary education, and had undergone abdominal hysterectomy. Demographic distribution of study participants ( n =60) Table 2 highlights the significant reduction in mean pain scores after six days of back muscle strengthening exercises in the experimental group, indicating the effectiveness of the intervention. Pre- and post-test pain scores in experimental group ( n =30) Table 3 presents the association of pain reduction with selected demographic factors. Age group, education level, and type of hysterectomy were significantly associated with variations in pain outcomes. Association of pain reduction with selected demographic variables Table 4 summarizes participant feedback regarding the exercise intervention, indicating a high level of satisfaction in terms of ease, pain relief, and overall experience. Participant feedback on the exercise program (experimental group, n =30) In summary, the findings support the efficacy of back muscle strengthening exercises in significantly reducing pain among post-hysterectomy women. The intervention was well-received and demonstrated clinical relevance across various subgroups. These results emphasize the potential of integrating structured physiotherapy into routine postoperative care to enhance recovery outcomes.

Back muscle strengthening exercises are effective in reducing post-hysterectomy pain and should be integrated into routine postoperative protocols to enhance recovery and patient comfort. There are no conflicts of interest.

This study demonstrated that back muscle strengthening exercises significantly reduce postoperative pain among women who have undergone hysterectomy.[ 6 ] The intervention group showed a marked decline in pain scores over six days, highlighting the clinical relevance of structured physiotherapy in postoperative care.[ 7 ] Significant associations with age, education, and type of surgery suggest that patient-specific factors may influence pain outcomes.[ 8 ] The high satisfaction reported by participants supports the intervention’s acceptability and feasibility in hospital settings.[ 9 ] These findings align with previous research emphasizing the benefits of non-pharmacological strategies in enhancing recovery following gynecological surgeries.[ 10 ] However, the study’s limited sample size and single-center design may restrict generalizability. Future studies with larger, more diverse populations and longer follow-up are recommended.

This quasi-experimental study with a one-group pre-test/post-test design was conducted among 60 post-hysterectomy women admitted to the hospital. Participants were selected through purposive sampling and divided into two groups: experimental ( n = 30) and control ( n = 30). Inclusion criteria included women who underwent abdominal or vaginal hysterectomy and were physically able to perform exercises. The experimental group received a structured back muscle strengthening exercise program from Day 2 to Day 6 under physiotherapist supervision, while the control group received routine postoperative care. Pain levels were assessed using a validated pain rating scale on Day 1 (pre-test) and Day 7 (post-test). Data were analyzed using paired t -tests and Chi-square tests; a P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.