Combined Hypopressive Exercises and Abdominal Bracing for Diastasis Recti after Pregnancy
Official title: Combined Effects of Hypopressive Exercises and Abdominal Bracing on Interrecti Distance, Lumbopelvic Pain, and Abdominal Muscle Strength in Diastasis Recti
Run by Riphah International University · NCT07642141 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether adding abdominal bracing to hypopressive exercises helps reduce Diastasis Recti and improve core function in postpartum women.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 23 Years to 30 Years |
| Sex | Women only |
| Enrollment | 34 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Riphah International University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Lahore, Punjab Province) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 2, 2025 |
| Main results expected | July 2, 2026 |
| Study ends | August 15, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | June 11, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07642141 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Postpartum women aged roughly 23–30 with inter-recti distance greater than 2 cm, at least 8 weeks after vaginal delivery, and BMI ≤ 29 kg/m2.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with recent abdominal surgery, abdominal hernias, fibroid uterus, cesarean delivery, or certain chronic conditions may not benefit or may be excluded from the study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This randomized trial investigates the combined effect of hypopressive exercises with abdominal bracing on inter-recti distance, lumbopelvic pain, and abdominal muscle strength in women after vaginal delivery. Participants are postpartum women with Diastasis Recti recruited from Jinnah Hospital in Lahore and randomly assigned to receive both interventions or hypopressive exercises alone, alongside standard postpartum physiotherapy. The protocol includes diaphragmatic breathing, rib cage expansion, apnea routines, and continuous abdominal bracing during waking hours for six weeks. Outcomes focus on structural separation, pain in the lower back and pelvis region, and measures of core muscle strength. The study aims to determine if the combination provides additional benefit over hypopressive exercises by themselves.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the combined approach could offer a more effective option to reduce abdominal muscle separation and improve core stability for postpartum women.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown benefits of hypopressive exercises and abdominal bracing individually, but evidence for their combined effect is limited and this trial explores that approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age group of 23 to 30 years * Inter recti distance \> 2 to 5 cm * A women who had undergone a vaginal delivery at least 8 weeks before the first measurement * A postpartum female with the presence of diastasis rectus abdominis * BMI under or equal to 29kg/m2 Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnant females (29) * Subjects who underwent any recent abdominal surgeries * Patient diagnosed with a Fibroid uterus * Patient diagnosed with abdominal hernia * Cesarean section (C-section) * Chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, uncontrolled hypertension, cardiovascular disease, or thyroid disorders.
Where it's running
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Jinnah Hospital
Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Muzzammil Akhtar — Riphah International University
- Study coordinator: Imran Amjad, PHD*
- Email: imran.amjad@riphah.edu.pk
- Phone: 03324390125
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Effects of Hypopressive vs Split Tummy Exercises on Diastasis Recti After Pregnancy
This study tests whether hypopressive exercises or split tummy exercises help reduce abdominal separation and improve pelvic floor strength and quality of life in postpartum women with diastasis recti.
-
Pilates versus progressive prone plank exercises for diastasis recti
This compares Pilates and progressive prone plank exercises to see which better reduces pain, increases abdominal strength, and narrows the abdominal gap in multiparous postpartum women with diastasis recti.
-
Corrective deep‑core exercises versus plank exercises for diastasis recti
This trial will test whether corrective deep‑core exercises or plank exercises better reduce abdominal separation and pain in postpartum women with diastasis recti.
-
Treating Diastasis Recti in Postpartum Women with Different Therapies
This study is testing different therapies to see which one helps new moms with Diastasis Recti feel better and strengthen their abdominal muscles.
-
Training program to prevent Diastasis Recti after pregnancy
This study tests a special training program to see if it can help new moms prevent problems related to diastasis recti, which is a separation of abdominal muscles after pregnancy.
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Tool to measure how DRA affects symptoms and quality of life in women with diastasis recti
A questionnaire will be created and tested in adult women with diastasis recti to see how it relates to symptoms, pain, and daily living.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.