RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT07642141

Combined Effects of Hypopressive Exercises and Abdominal Bracing on Diastasis Recti Outcomes

Combined Effects of Hypopressive Exercises and Abdominal Bracing on Interrecti Distance, Lumbopelvic Pain, and Abdominal Muscle Strength in Diastasis Recti

Sponsor

Riphah International University

Enrollment

34 participants

Start Date

Apr 2, 2025

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

diastasis recti

Summary

Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA) is the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles along the linea alba, commonly seen after childbirth due to the mechanical and hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. DRA can negatively affect posture, trunk stability, and breathing patterns, and may result in persistent lumbopelvic pain and weakened core muscles if not properly managed. Although hypopressive exercises and abdominal bracing have individually demonstrated positive effects in reducing inter-recti distance and improving core function, limited research exists regarding their combined effects. This randomized clinical trial aims to evaluate the combined impact of hypopressive exercises and abdominal bracing on inter-recti distance, lumbopelvic pain, and abdominal muscle strength in postpartum women with DRA. The study will include 34 postpartum women recruited from Jinnah Hospital, Lahore, who will be randomly assigned into two groups. Group A will receive both hypopressive exercises and abdominal bracing, while Group B will receive only hypopressive exercises along with standard postpartum physiotherapy. Outcome measures will include pain intensity, lumbopelvic disability, abdominal muscle strength, and inter-recti distance, with data analyzed using SPSS version 25.

Eligibility

Sex: FEMALEMin Age: 23 YearsMax Age: 30 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This clinical trial is studying Hypopressive Exercise and Hypopressive exercise and Abdominal Bracing for people with diastasis recti. The study is currently recruiting participants at 1 location. People eligible for this study include women aged 23 Years to 30 Years.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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Interventions

OTHERHypopressive exercise and Abdominal Bracing

The hypopressive exercise protocol included maintaining spinal elongation, a neutral pelvis, knee flexion, and scapular muscle activation. Participants performed diaphragmatic breathing followed by full expiration and a 10-second apnea with rib cage expansion, causing inward abdominal contraction without inhalation. Exercises were performed in lying, sitting, standing, kneeling, and four-point kneeling positions. Each exercise was repeated three times with 30-second rest intervals. The intervention lasted 6 weeks with 12 sessions. Participants in Group A also used an ITA-Med postnatal abdominal binder made of breathable elastic material. The binder covered the area from the pubis to the lower ribs and was worn during waking hours for 6 weeks, except during sleep and bathing. It was applied while lying down and adjusted for a snug but comfortable fit. Participants were instructed to avoid excessive tightness and monitor the skin for irritation.

OTHERHypopressive Exercise

Each exercise was performed during the expiratory phase and required the contraction of the pelvic floor muscles. Participants were instructed to perform between 1 to 3 sets of 10 repetitions per exercise, holding each contraction for 5 seconds followed by 10 seconds of relaxation. The number of sets and the difficult level were progressively adjusted over time. This treatment protocol will be performed over a time period of 6 weeks