Effects of Pilates and Progressive Prone Plank Exercises in Diastasis Recti

Comparative Effects of Pilates and Progressive Prone Plank Exercises on Pain, Strength and Inter-Rectus Distance in Diastasis Recti

This study aims to determine the comparative effects of Pilates and Progressive Prone Plank exercises on pain, strength and inter rectus distance in Diastasis Recti

This will be a randomized clinical trial collected from University of Lahore Teaching hospital and Sehat Medical Complex Lahore by using non-probability convenience sampling technique. Multiparous women with a BMI less than 30 kg/m² and have been clinically diagnosed with Diastasis Recti will be included in this study. Participants must be able to perform physical activity without contraindications and must provide informed consent. Women currently pregnant, with significant pelvic floor dysfunction, unmanaged chronic illnesses (e.g., heart disease or hypertension), recent abdominal surgeries within the last six months will be excluded. The sample size is calculated to be 34, with 17 participants in each group. Group A will receive Pilates training, while Group B will undergo progressive prone plank exercises. Each session will last for 45 minute, thrice weekly for four weeks. Pre- and post-treatment evaluations will include pain (Numeric Pain Rating Scale), strength (Manual Muscle Testing), and inter-rectus distance (measured by finger-width method with a Vernier caliper). Data will be analyzed by using SPSS version 27.0.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Multiparous women
• Postpartum women (within 6 to 12 months postpartum)
• BMI <30
• IRD ≥2 cm diagnosed with Diastasis Recti (verified by ultrasound or clinical assessment)
• Participants who have undergone either vaginal delivery or cesarean section (C-section).

Exclusion Criteria:

• Significant pelvic floor dysfunction or pelvic organ prolapse or other related conditions
• Patient with unmanaged chronic conditions, like heart disease or hypertension
• Recent abdominal or related surgeries within the past six months
• Women who are currently pregnant or experiencing postpartum complications.
• Patient with presence of hernia.