Rehabilitation program for abdominal separation after childbirth
Trunk Stabilization Exercise and Inspiratory Muscle Training Effects on Diastasis Recti Abdominis in Postpartum Women - A Randomized Controlled Trial
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
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 48 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | University of Patras Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Pátrai) |
| Trial ID | NCT06286553 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
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.
Not a fit: Patients with severe chronic respiratory diseases, connective tissue disorders, or significant musculoskeletal conditions may not benefit from this study.
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 performed: 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.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Pátrai
- Laboratory of Clinical Rehabilitation and Research (CPRlab), University of Patras — Pátrai, Greece (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Anastasia Skoura, MSc
- Email: a.skoura@upatras.gr
- Phone: 00306947784948
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.