Trunk Stabilization Exercise and Inspiratory Muscle Training Effects on Diastasis Recti Abdominis in Postpartum Women - A Randomized Controlled Trial

Status: Recruiting
Location: See location...
Intervention Type: Behavioral
Study Type: Interventional
Study Phase: Not Applicable
SUMMARY

Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA) is the separation of the rectus muscles caused by stretching and thinning of the linea alba during pregnancy and childbirth. It's a common condition, affecting 66-100% of women post-birth and can persist for many years, leading to abdominal protrusion, discomfort, and aesthetic concerns. It might also contribute to back pain, urinary issues, and reduced abdominal strength, impacting quality of life. Recent guidelines propose that conservative management, such as rehabilitation interventions, should be prioritized for DRA. However, there is a lack of consensus among researchers regarding the most effective exercise regimen, resulting in diverse rehabilitation programs. Recent evidence advocates not only for closing the gap but also for achieving optimal function. Current studies often neglect to address functional rehabilitation, underscoring the necessity for robust clinical trials, which is the primary focus of this study. Additionally, although breathing exercises are commonly prescribed for DRA, the precise role of the diaphragm, the primary respiratory muscle, in rehabilitation hasn't been fully examined. The diaphragm forms the upper boundary of the abdominal cavity and plays a key role in the stability of the trunk, working together with the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles. A recent study found reduced diaphragm excursion in postpartum women with lumbopelvic pain during a low postural demanding task, while previous studies suggest that diaphragm training could alleviate such symptoms influencing factors such as diaphragm thickness and excursion, which may be linked to improved trunk stability. Hence, training the diaphragm and accessory inspiratory muscles through Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT) could potentially play a crucial role in managing DRA. In summary, the goal of this study is to develop and assess a comprehensive rehabilitation program aimed at effectively reducing DRA and addressing associated dysfunctions. The program will integrate evidence-based rehabilitation interventions, such as trunk stabilization exercises and IMT, targeting all related dysfunctions caused by DRA, and introducing a novel therapeutic protocol not previously implemented. The study will take the form of a prospective, randomized controlled trial (RCT).

Eligibility
Participation Requirements
Sex: Female
Minimum Age: 18
Maximum Age: 50
Healthy Volunteers: f
View:

• Females aged 18-50 years

• Diagnosed with diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) with an inter-recti distance (IRD) greater than 2.8 cm

• Beyond 6 months postpartum (preferably within the range of up to 5 years postpartum)

Locations
Other Locations
Greece
Laboratory of Clinical Rehabilitation and Research (CPRlab), University of Patras
RECRUITING
Pátrai
Contact Information
Primary
Anastasia Skoura, MSc
a.skoura@upatras.gr
00306947784948
Backup
Evdokia Billis, PhD
billis@upatras.gr
00306973047170
Time Frame
Start Date: 2024-03-11
Estimated Completion Date: 2025-08-30
Participants
Target number of participants: 48
Treatments
Experimental: Trunk Exercise and Inspiratory Muscle Training Group (IMT+TEG)
The Trunk Exercise and Inspiratory Muscle Training Group (IMT+TEG) will follow a comprehensive, 12-week therapeutic exercise program that involves progressive strengthening exercises specifically targeting the trunk and pelvic floor muscles, functional retraining exercises, and additional exercises focusing on strengthening the inspiratory muscles (Inspiratory Muscle Training - IMT).
Active_comparator: Trunk Exercise Group (TEG)
The Trunk Exercise Group (TEG) will partake in a comprehensive 12-week therapeutic exercise program that involves progressive strengthening exercises specifically targeting the trunk and pelvic floor muscles, alongside functional retraining exercises.
Active_comparator: Control group (CG)
The control group (CG) will receive general management information for DRA, and written instructions for engaging the deeper abdominals and pelvic floor muscles, accompanied by an educational exercise session. Participants will be encouraged to perform these contractions regularly, without guidance or supervision.
Related Therapeutic Areas
Sponsors
Leads: University of Patras

This content was sourced from clinicaltrials.gov

Similar Clinical Trials