Corrective deep‑core exercises versus plank exercises for diastasis recti
Official title: Effects of Corrective Versus Plank Exercises on Strength, Inter Recti Distance and Pain in Females With Diastasis Recti
Run by Riphah International University · NCT07440836 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This trial will test whether corrective deep‑core exercises or plank exercises better reduce abdominal separation and pain in postpartum women with diastasis recti.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 25 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | Women only |
| Enrollment | 56 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Riphah International University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Lahore, Punjab Province) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 1, 2025 |
| Main results expected | October 2026 |
| Study ends | October 2026 |
| Registry record updated | September 24, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07440836 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Postpartum women (3 months to 3 years after vaginal multiparous delivery) with diastasis recti (inter‑recti distance >4 cm) and pain greater than 6 on the NPRS.
✕Probably not a fit
Women with recent pelvic or abdominal surgery, significant cardiac or respiratory disease, neurological disorders, prior pelvic floor physical therapy, trauma to bowel or bladder, or postpartum depression are excluded and may not receive benefit from this trial.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This randomized clinical trial at Services Hospital and affiliated polyclinics will enroll 56 postpartum women with diastasis recti and randomize them to either corrective exercises focused on deep core engagement or to plank exercises, each performed three times weekly for 12 weeks. All participants receive baseline electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) and pelvic floor exercises to ensure core stability before starting their assigned regimen. Primary outcomes include changes in inter‑recti distance, manual muscle testing for strength, and pain measured by the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), recorded at baseline and after 12 weeks. Data will be analyzed using SPSS v25 to compare pre‑ and post‑intervention outcomes between groups.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the program could reduce abdominal separation and pain while improving core strength and daily function for postpartum women.
How similar studies have gone: Prior small trials and clinical guidance support targeted deep‑core and pelvic floor training for reducing inter‑recti distance, while evidence for plank exercises is limited and results have been mixed.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * If IRD is greater than 4cm and above * Postpartum females * Three months to three years postpartum with presence of diastasis rectus abdominis * Vaginal delivery * Multiparous * Pain greater than 6 on NPRS Exclusion Criteria: * Subjects with any heart condition, respiratory condition * Any pelvic or abdominal surgery * Any neurological disease eg preeclampsia, epilepsy * Trauma to bowel or bladder * Prior history of physical therapy treatment for pelvic floor issues * Postpartum depression
Where it's running
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Services Hospital
Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: adeela arif, t-DPT — 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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Combined Hypopressive Exercises and Abdominal Bracing for Diastasis Recti after Pregnancy
This study tests whether adding abdominal bracing to hypopressive exercises helps reduce Diastasis Recti and improve core function in postpartum women.
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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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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.