Feasibility and Preliminary Efficacy of a Telerehabilitation Protocol for Diastasis Recti Abdominis: A Pilot Study

This pilot study investigates the feasibility, patient satisfaction, and preliminary clinical effects of a 12-week telerehabilitation program targeting postpartum women diagnosed with diastasis recti abdominis (DRA). The intervention is delivered remotely and combines synchronous (real-time, supervised by physiotherapists) and asynchronous (video-recorded) therapeutic exercise sessions. Participants are required to attend two synchronous sessions per week via teleconference, which allows for real-time supervision and interaction with a specialized physiotherapist. They are also encouraged to attend one additional session per week independently using pre-recorded content. The exercise protocol includes progressive-load training focusing on inner core activation (i.e. transversus abdominis, pelvic floor muscles), outer core strengthening, and functional retraining.

Assessments are conducted at baseline, week 4, week 8, and post-intervention (week 12). Ultrasound imaging is used to measure inter-recti distance (IRD) at standard anatomical locations (2 cm above, 5 cm above, and 2 cm below the umbilicus) at baseline and post-intervention. Trunk muscle endurance is assessed through established functional tests, including curl-up manoeuvre, plank variations and McGill's trunk flexor endurance test at baseline, week 4, week 8, and post-intervention (week 12). Body image is evaluated using a validated Greek version of the Body Image States Scale (BISS_Greek) both at baseline and at the end of the intervention. Patient satisfaction is measured via the Greek version of the Telehealth Usability Questionnaire (TUQ_Greek), also accompanied by a custom-designed satisfaction question. Adherence is tracked using exercise diaries.

The study complies with ethical standards in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and has been approved by the Research Ethics Committee (R.E.C.) of the University of Patras (Internal Code: 16331/29-01-2024). All participants receive comprehensive written information about the study and data protection procedures and provide informed consent prior to participation. Patient data are anonymized and stored securely on a coded cloud-based platform accessible only to authorized research team members. Any adverse events are managed appropriately, documented in detail, and medical consultation is available during assessment and rehabilitation hours.

Missing, inconsistent, or uninterpretable data are addressed through imputation methods. A comprehensive data dictionary has been developed to ensure consistency in variable definitions, coding, and expected ranges. The accuracy and completeness of data entries is ensured by the research team through internal data validation and comparison with source data.

Participants are recruited through multiple channels, including posters and leaflets distributed at the University of Patras, the University General Hospital of Patras, and throughout the wider Achaia region. Recruitment is also supported by professional networks such as the Panhellenic Medical Association, the Panhellenic Physiotherapists' Association, and individual healthcare professionals (e.g., gynecologists, urologists, obstetricians, surgeons), public engagement events are organized across the Achaia region, and study information are promoted via the university website (Department of Physiotherapy), social media, and professional conferences.