Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 18 to 50 Women only

Rehabilitation program for abdominal separation after childbirth

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

Run by University of Patras · NCT06286553 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a new exercise program to help women with abdominal separation after childbirth strengthen their muscles and improve their condition.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages18 Years to 50 Years
SexWomen only
Enrollment48 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity of Patras
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Pátrai)
StatusRecruiting
StartedMarch 11, 2024
Main results expectedAugust 30, 2025
Study endsMay 30, 2026
Registry record updatedJanuary 20, 2026
Trial IDNCT06286553 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates for this study are females aged 18-50 years who are diagnosed with DRA and are at least 6 months postpartum.

Probably not a fit

Patients with severe chronic respiratory diseases, connective tissue disorders, or significant musculoskeletal conditions may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study aims to develop and evaluate a comprehensive rehabilitation program for women experiencing Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA) after childbirth. It involves a prospective randomized controlled trial that focuses on strengthening both superficial and deep abdominal muscles through various exercises, including Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT). The program is designed to improve muscle function and facilitate the closure of DRA while also being accessible remotely to enhance compliance. The study adheres to ethical standards and aims to provide evidence-based rehabilitation strategies for affected women.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve the quality of life for women suffering from DRA by enhancing abdominal strength and function.

How similar studies have gone: While there is ongoing research in this area, this specific approach combining trunk and inspiratory muscle training is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 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)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Severe chronic respiratory disease (i.e. COPD, chronic bronchitis, pulmonary emphysema or fibrosis)
* Connective tissue disorders
* Neurological disorders
* Severe musculoskeletal conditions hindering exercise participation (e.g., severe low back pain, sciatica, etc.)
* Previous abdominal surgeries (excluding cesarean section)
* Delivery within the last 6 months
* BMI greater than 30 kg/m²

Where it's running

  • Laboratory of Clinical Rehabilitation and Research (CPRlab), University of Patras
    Pátrai, Greece
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.