Though not a disability, dysmenorrhea is a common condition affecting women. Dysmenorrhea means painful menstruation.
PAIN MAY BE RELATED TO
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Insufficient exercise | ||||||
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Poor posture | ||||||
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Weak abdominal muscles | ||||||
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Undue muscular tension | ||||||
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Improper diet | ||||||
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Organic causes of pain include
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SYMPTOMS OF DYSMENORRHEA
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Pressure and pain in the abdominal area and/or low back |
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Headache |
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Tension |
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Leg pain |
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Constipation or diarrhea |
SUGGESTIONS FOR THE WOMAN WITH DYSMENORRHEA
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Maintain levels of aerobic activity (walking, cycling, etc.) |
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Decrease consumption of salt one week prior to menstrual onset |
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Increase intake of water |
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Increase consumption of roughage (celery, carrots, apples) one week prior to onset |
TEACHING TIPS
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Encourage exercises that develop abdominal strength. |
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Inform the student that exercise during menstruation is safe and beneficial. |
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Provide exercises that stimulate circulation and increase flexibility. |
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Information on this sheet contains only suggested guidelines. Each person must be considered individually, and in many cases, a physician's written consent should be obtained. Developed by Texas Woman's University Graduate Adapted Physical Education Program in cooperation with Denton ISD (French, 1997; modified by Huettig, 1999).