What is Probe-free Pelvic-Floor Biofeedback and Why Should It Be Used in a Physiotherapy Practice?

Blueback
Dec 15
2 min read

Introduction

Probe-free Pelvic-Floor Biofeedback is an innovative pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation technique that allows patients to visualize and control muscle activity in real time—without the use of an intra-vaginal or intra-anal probe. Suitable for physiotherapy practices, this tool promotes a more comfortable, respectful, and effective treatment—especially for postpartum women, individuals with urinary incontinence, and athletes aiming to optimize lumbopelvic stability.

Understanding Probe-Free Pelvic-Floor Biofeedback

a. How it works

The device uses external sensors placed on the perineal or abdominal skin to detect the electrical signals generated by pelvic floor muscle contractions.
These signals are converted into visual or auditory data, displayed on a screen or a mobile app.
Patients observe the intensity and duration of their contractions in real time and adjust their effort based on the physiotherapist's guidance.

Look at the explanation of the Deep EMG™

b. Differences Compared to Probe-Based Biofeedback

Criteria	With Probe	Without Probe
Confort	Internal contact	external contact (non-invasive)
Patient acceptability	Limited by discomfort	Better adherence
Precision	Direct measure	External captation
Set up	Long and non-hygienic	Fast and simple

2. Benefits for Physiotherapy Practice

Improved Patient Compliance: The non-invasive approach increases acceptance, especially among reluctant patients.
Time-Saving During Sessions: Quick setup and immediate data visualization.
Objective Progress Tracking: Graphs and scores quantify muscular performance improvements.
Versatility: Suitable for postpartum recovery, incontinence treatment, pre-/post-surgical rehab, and athletic training.

3. Use Cases & Feedback from the Field

a. Postpartum Rehabilitation

Numerous studies show that 50% of women experience pelvic floor weakness after childbirth. Biofeedback helps:

Accurately identify muscular weaknesses
Personalize protocols with measurable goals
Improve perineal muscle tone recovery by 30 to 50% in just 6 weeks

b. Athletic Training

Sports centers like PSG and the Clairefontaine Medical Center already use Deep EMG®️ via the Blueback Physio to:

Optimize core stability in athletes
Reduce risk of lumbar and pelvic injuries
Strengthen coordination between the transverse abdominis and the pelvic floor

Watch feedback from Guillaume Vassout (in french), physiotherapist for the French national football team, specializing in sports injuries at Clairefontaine Medical Center.👇

c. Pediatrics

The external nature of perineal biofeedback is ideal for reassuring parents during enuresis management.

Make sessions fun and engaging
Increase adherence among both children and parents
Simplify your practice

Watch feedback from Isabelle Majowski (in french), pediatric-specialized physiotherapist, on the Inner UP 👇

4. How to Integrate Probe-Free Biofeedback in Your Practice

Equipment Acquisition: Choose a certified device with a dedicated app.
Short Training: A 45-minute online training session is included upon purchase to help you get started confidently.
Session Protocols:
- Start with static exercises using the Biofeedback mode for a few minutes so the patient can get familiar with the signal.
- Then move to an Initial Assessment (5 min) and a Biofeedback session of 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the need (fast-twitch vs. slow-twitch fibers).
Tracking & Adaptation: Analyze data, adjust exercises, and motivate your patient. Gradually expose them to situations that trigger leaks to help them build confidence.