Effects of Corrective Versus Plank Exercises on Diastasis Recti

Effects of Corrective Versus Plank Exercises on Strength, Inter Recti Distance and Pain in Females With Diastasis Recti

This study will be randomized clinical trial and will be conducted in Services Hospital and poly clinics. The total duration of treatment will be 12 weeks. Non-probability convenience sampling technique will be used and 56 participants will be recruited in study after randomization. The participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups: Group A performs corrective exercises focused on deep core engagement, while Group B performs plank exercises aimed at overall abdominal activation. Each group follows their respective regimen three times per week for 12 weeks. Baseline EMS and pelvic floor exercises are conducted for all participants to ensure core stability before the interventions begin. Outcome measures, including manual muscle testing (MMT) for strength, and the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) for pain, are recorded both before and after the 12-week intervention. After data collection data will be analyzed by using SPSS version 25.

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