Comparison of the Immediate Effect of Contraction Maneuvers of the Abdominal Muscles on Inter-Recti Distance in Women with Diastasis Recti and Healthy Women

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Diastasis recti is a common problem after delivery, which occurs due to stretch of fascia between two sides of rectus abdominis muscle. The present study was conducted with the purpose of determining the immediate effect of contraction of the abdominal muscles on inter-recti distance.   Methods: This case-control study was performed on 40 women in 2 groups of diastasis (n=20) and normal (n=20). Inter-recti distance was assessed by solography (before and during the contraction). Data were analyzed using Kolmogorov-Smirnov, independent t-, and paired t-tests.   Results: In both groups, a significant decrease was observed between two sides of rectus abdominis muscle during each maneuver, except abdominal hollowing maneuver, in healthy group compared to the resting position (p<0/05). In both groups, maximum decrease in the distance between two sides of rectus abdominis muscle, was seen during partial sit-up maneuver towards both sides (p<0/05).   Conclusion: According to the findings of the present study, the maximum decrease in distance between two sides of rectus abdominis muscle, was happened during partial sit-up maneuver towards both sides and the minimum decrease was happened during abdominal hallowing maneuver.  

Keywords

• diastasis recti
• muscle contraction
• abdominal maneuvers
• delivery
• obstetric
• females