Impact of Diastasis Recti Abdominis on Spinal Curvature in Postpartum Women
Overview
- Phase
- Not Applicable
- Status
- Not yet recruiting
- Sponsor
- Cairo University
- Enrollment
- 110
- Primary Endpoint
- Lumbar Lordosis Angle
Overview
Brief Summary
This study investigates the relationship between diastasis recti abdominis and spinal curvature in postpartum women using non-invasive assessment methods.
Detailed Description
Postpartum musculoskeletal changes are common and may significantly affect spinal alignment and overall physical function. Diastasis recti abdominis (DRA), a separation of the abdominal muscles after pregnancy, is frequently reported among postpartum women and may contribute to alterations in trunk stability and posture. Despite its high prevalence, the potential association between DRA and spinal curvature has not been sufficiently clarified. Understanding this relationship is important, as changes in spinal alignment-such as increased lumbar lordosis or thoracic kyphosis-may influence pain, functional ability, and long-term musculoskeletal health. Therefore, further investigation is needed to better define the connection between DRA and spinal curvature in order to support early assessment and improve postpartum rehabilitation strategies.
Study Design
- Study Type
- Observational
- Observational Model
- Other
- Time Perspective
- Cross Sectional
Eligibility Criteria
- Ages
- 21 Years to 35 Years (Adult)
- Sex
- Female
- Accepts Healthy Volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria
- •Age range: 21 to 35 years
- •BMI between 18 and 29.9 kg/m².
- •Normal vaginal delivery or cesarean section.
- •Postpartum period between 6 weeks and 6 months
- •Participants with or without diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) as determined by ultrasound.
Exclusion Criteria
- •• History of spinal deformities (e.g., scoliosis, kyphosis, spondylolisthesis).
- •Any neuromuscular or neurological disorders.
- •Previous abdominal or spinal surgery.
- •Multiple pregnancies.
- •Participants currently undergoing physical therapy treatment for spinal or abdominal conditions.
- •Inability to comply with instructions or complete the assessment protocol
Arms & Interventions
Women without Diastasis Recti
Postpartum women without diastasis recti abdominis. Participants will undergo non-invasive assessment of spinal curvature for comparison purposes. No intervention will be administered.
Women with Diastasis Recti
Postpartum women diagnosed with diastasis recti abdominis. Participants will undergo non-invasive assessment of spinal curvature for comparison purposes. No intervention will be administered.
Outcomes
Primary Outcomes
Lumbar Lordosis Angle
Time Frame: At baseline (single assessment).
Lumbar lordosis angle measured in degrees in postpartum women with and without diastasis recti abdominis using a non-invasive assessment method.
Secondary Outcomes
No secondary outcomes reported
Investigators
Mawada Mohamed Ali Altemamy
Principal Investigator
Cairo University