Core muscle strength and stability-oriented breathing training reduces inter-recti distance in postpartum women.

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the impact of stability-focused core muscle strength training coupled with respiratory techniques on diminishing the inter-recti distance (IRD) among postpartum women.

Methods: A total of 106 women diagnosed with diastasis recti abdominis within 42 days following delivery were 1:1 randomly allocated into a control group (n = 53) and an intervention group (n = 53). Both groups underwent standard postpartum follow-up care and independently pursued self-directed rehabilitation exercises. Additionally, the intervention group commenced a 6-week program of core muscle strength stability-oriented breathing training 42 days postpartum. Measurements of IRD were taken both pre- and post-intervention.

Results: Prior to the intervention, no statistically significant difference in IRD was observed between the two groups (P > 0.05). Subsequent to the intervention, notable reductions in IRD measurements were evident above, at the level of, and below the umbilicus in both groups compared to baseline measurements (intervention group: P < 0.001 at all measured points; control group: P = 0.035 above the umbilicus, P < 0.001 at the level of, and below the umbilicus). However, the intervention group exhibited a more pronounced decrease in IRD at all measured points when compared to the control group, demonstrating statistical significance with P = 0.000.

Conclusion: Core muscle strength stability-oriented breathing training demonstrates efficacy in reducing IRD among postpartum women.