Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA)TrA RA IRD DRANCT07253844
Effects of Transverse Abdominis Activation and Rectus Abdominis Strengthening on Inter-rectus Distance and Core Stability
A study testing Transverse Abdominis activation exercises, Rectus Abdominis Strengthening exercises and combined protocol of both transverse abdominis activation and rectus abdominis strengthening. in people with Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA), run by Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences at 2 sites in Pakistan.
Trial summary
This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effects of Transverse Abdominis (TrA) activation, Rectus Abdominis (RA) strengthening, and their combined approach on inter-rectus distance (IRD) and core stability in postpartum women diagnosed with diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA). Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 20 to 40 years, women only
- Conditions the study is for
- Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA)
- What is being tested?
- Transverse Abdominis activation exercises, Rectus Abdominis Strengthening exercises and combined protocol of both transverse abdominis activation and rectus abdominis strengthening.
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 33 participants
- Where
- 2 sitesPakistan
- Study dates
- 25 Nov 2025to 30 May 2026
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 20 to 40 years
- Women only
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- . Postpartum women diagnosed with DRA
- Multigravida
- Delivered a singleton pregnancy via vaginal breech or instrumental delivery
Who cannot join
- . Pregnancy
- Abdominal and pelvic hernias or severe musculoskeletal conditions
- Patients with abdominal and pelvic surgery
- Patients with disc herniation
Trial locations and contacts
2 sites in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
Pakistan2 sites
Lahore University of biological and applied sciences
Lahore, Punjab Province
Muhammad tariq shafi, BSPT,tDPT, +923454190056, muhammad.tariq@ubas.edu.pk
Pakistan Society for Rehabilitation of Differently Abled
Lahore, Punjab Province
Dr.Aneela Amjad, M.Phil. Physiology, +923434380078, draneelapcrs@gmail.com
About this study
Official title: Effects of Transverse Abdominis Activation and Rectus Abdominis Strengthening on Inter-rectus Distance and Core Stability Among Patients With Diastasis Rectus Abdominis
This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effects of Transverse Abdominis (TrA) activation, Rectus Abdominis (RA) strengthening, and their combined approach on inter-rectus distance (IRD) and core stability in postpartum women diagnosed with diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA). Thirty-three participants will be randomly allocated into three groups and will complete a six-week exercise program at the Pakistan Society for the Rehabilitation of the Disabled (PSRD) Hospital, Lahore. The study will use real-time ultrasound and pressure biofeedback assessment to evaluate changes in IRD and core stability. It is hypothesized that TrA activation and the combined intervention will produce greater improvements compared to RA strengthening alone.
Read the detailed description
Background and Rationale:
Diastasis Rectus Abdominis (DRA) is a prevalent postpartum musculoskeletal condition characterized by the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles along the linea alba, resulting in impaired trunk stability, abdominal weakness, and postural dysfunction. Despite its high prevalence, DRA remains underdiagnosed and undertreated, particularly in developing countries where structured rehabilitation protocols are lacking. Physiotherapy-based interventions focusing on abdominal muscle retraining and core stability have been shown to improve outcomes; however, the relative effectiveness of Transverse Abdominis (TrA) activation, Rectus Abdominis (RA) strengthening, and their combined approach remains uncertain.
Objectives:
This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effects of TrA activation, RA strengthening, and their combination on inter-rectus distance (IRD) and core stability among postpartum women with DRA.
Methods:
This three-arm, parallel-group randomized controlled trial will be conducted at the Pakistan Society for the Rehabilitation of the Disabled (PSRD) Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan. A total of 33 postpartum women aged 20-40 years, diagnosed with DRA (6 months to 2 years postpartum), will be recruited using non-probability convenience sampling. Participants will be randomly assigned into three groups (n = 11 per group):
Group A (TAA): Transverse Abdominis Activation exercises
Group B (RAS): Rectus Abdominis Strengthening exercises
Group C (TAA + RAS): Combined TrA activation and RA strengthening protocol
Each participant will undergo a 6-week intervention program, including three supervised sessions per week for 3 weeks, followed by a 3-week home exercise program. Each session will last 30-45 minutes and will be supervised by a licensed physical therapist at PSRD.
Outcome Measures:
Primary Outcome: Change in Inter-Rectus Distance (IRD), measured via real-time ultrasound imaging (7.5 MHz linear probe) at three anatomical sites (4.5 cm above, at, and 4.5 cm below the umbilicus), pre- and post-intervention.
Secondary Outcome: Core stability, assessed using a Pressure Biofeedback Unit (PBU) during the abdominal drawing-in maneuver (ADIM) in crook-lying position. Participants will aim to reduce pressure by 6-10 mmHg from a 40 mmHg baseline and sustain the contraction for 10 seconds; the mean of three trials will be recorded.
Randomization and Blinding:
Participants will be randomized using Randomized Allocation Software (Version 1.0) in a 1:1:1 ratio. Due to the exercise-based nature of the interventions, blinding of participants and therapists is not feasible; however, the outcome assessor will remain blinded to group assignments, ensuring a single-blind design.
Data Analysis:
Statistical analysis will be performed using SPSS version 26. Data will first be tested for normality using the Shapiro-Wilk test. A two-way mixed ANOVA will be applied to assess both within-subject effects (time: pre vs. post) and between-subject effects (group: TAA, RAS, TAA+RAS), as well as the interaction effect (time × group) on IRD and core stability outcomes. Post-hoc pairwise comparisons with Bonferroni correction will identify specific between-group differences. Statistical significance will be set at p < 0.05 with a 95% confidence interval.
Expected Clinical Significance:
It is hypothesized that TrA activation exercises will lead to a greater reduction in IRD and improvement in core stability compared to RA strengthening alone. The combined exercise group (TAA + RAS) is expected to demonstrate the most comprehensive benefits due to synergistic activation of both deep and superficial abdominal muscles. The study outcomes are anticipated to provide evidence-based guidance for physiotherapists in postpartum rehabilitation, contributing to the development of standardized, non-invasive exercise protocols for DRA management and improved quality of life in postpartum women.
- Conditions
- Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA)
- Being tested
- Transverse Abdominis activation exercises, Rectus Abdominis Strengthening exercises, combined protocol of both transverse abdominis activation and rectus abdominis strengthening.
- Keywords
- Diastasis Rectus Abdominus, Inter rectus distance, Rectus abdominus strenghtheing
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Transverse Abdominis activation exercisesOther
Group A (TAA) will perform abdominal drawing-in maneuvers (ADIM) in crook lying, side lying, and quadruped positions. They will be instructed to gently draw the belly button inward toward the spine without moving the pelvis or rib cage, emphasizing breathing coordination and pelvic floor co-activation. In the supervised phase, participants will perform 3 sets of 10 repetitions, with each contraction held for 10-20 seconds, and a rest interval of 3 minutes between sets
Rectus Abdominis Strengthening exercisesOther
Group B (RAS) will perform exercises in supine lying with knees bent, including partial curl-ups, reverse crunches, pelvic tilts, and leg raises with abdominal bracing. The command will be tighten your abdominals as if bracing for a punch, and lift without straining your neck. Each supervised session will include 3 sets of 10-15 repetitions per exercise, progressing in difficulty using added resistance if tolerated, with a 3-minute rest interval between sets
combined protocol of both transverse abdominis activation and rectus abdominis strengthening.Other
Group C (TAA+RAS) will perform a hybrid protocol integrating both TrA activation and RA strengthening exercises. Each session will begin with ADIM in crook lying, side lying, and quadruped positions, followed by RA exercises including curl-ups, pelvic tilts, and leg raises. The command will be to activate your deep core with breathing, then strengthen your outer abdominals through controlled movements. Each supervised session will consist of 3 sets of 10 repetitions for TrA exercises (10-20 seconds hold) and 3 sets of 10-15 repetitions for RA exercises, with a rest period of 3 minutes between all sets.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Group A (Transverse abdominis activation) | Experimental | Not described Receives: Other: Transverse Abdominis activation exercises |
| Group B (Rectus abdominis strengthening) | Experimental | Not described Receives: Other: Rectus Abdominis Strengthening exercises |
| Group C (Transverse abdominis activation +rectus abdominis strengthening) | Experimental | Not described Receives: Other: combined protocol of both transverse abdominis activation and rectus abdominis strengthening. |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Inter-rectus Distance (IRD)
The Inter-rectus Distance (IRD) is the measurement of the separation between the two rectus abdominis muscles along the linea alba. It is assessed using ultrasound imaging while the participant is in a supine position with knees bent.. A high-frequency (7.5 MHz) linear probe will be placed on the abdomen while the patient lies on their back. Images will be taken at three points above, at, and below the belly button.
Measured: Baseline: Before starting the intervention Post-intervention: At the end of 6 weeks of the exercise program
Secondary outcomes (1)
Core stability
core stability was assessed using the pressure biofeedback unit (PBU), a reliable and non-invasive tool designed to evaluate the activation and control of deep abdominal muscles, particularly TrA. The PBU consists of a pressure cuff connected to an analog pressure gauge and provides visual feedback on pressure changes in response to subtle lumbo pelvic movements (57). For assessment, participants were positioned in a crook lying position, and the cuff was positioned under the lumbar spine (L4-L5 region). The device was inflated to a baseline pressure of 40 mmHg, and participants will be instructed to perform the abdominal drawing-in maneuver, aiming to reduce the pressure by 6-10 mmHg without moving the pelvis or spine. They were asked to maintain this contraction for 10 seconds, and the procedure will be repeated three times, with the average score recorded for analysis.
Measured: Baseline (pre-intervention) and 6 weeks (post-intervention)
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted28 Nov 2025
- Study start25 Nov 2025 (estimated)
- Primary completion25 May 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion30 May 2026 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Publications (5)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA)Studies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by Lahore University of Biological and Applied SciencesThe sponsor's other registered studies.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind
- Who is masked
- Outcomes assessor
- Enrolment
- 33 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
- Investigators
- Muhammad tariq Shafi, BSPT,tDPT, Study chair, Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07253844
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- UBAS/ERB/FoRS/25/025
- Acronym
- TrA RA IRD DRA
- Status last verified
- Nov 2025
- First submitted
- 19 Nov 2025
- Last updated
- 28 Nov 2025
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- Yes
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- Yes: De-identified individual participant data (IPD) will be shared, including demographic characteristics (age, parity, BMI), baseline and post-intervention ultrasound measurements of inter-rectus distance (IRD), abdominal muscle strength scores, and functional outcome or patient-reported measures related to abdominal function. Data will also include group allocation (Transverse Abdominis Activation or Rectus Abdominis Strengthening) for analysis comparison. All shared data will be stripped of any personal identifiers to ensure participant confidentiality. The shared dataset will be available in a coded format for secondary analysis and research transparency purposes only.
Publications
Benjamin DR, Frawley HC, Shields N, van de Water ATM, Taylor NF. Relationship between diastasis of the rectus abdominis muscle (DRAM) and musculoskeletal dysfunctions, pain and quality of life: a systematic review. Physiotherapy. 2019 Mar;105(1):24-34. doi: 10.1016/j.physio.2018.07.002. Epub 2018 Jul 24.
PubMed 30217494Olsson A, Woxnerud K, Kiwanuka O, Sandblom G, Stackelberg O. The TOR concept (training, operation, and rehabilitation) applied to a cohort of postpartum women with training-resistant symptomatic rectus diastasis: evaluation 1 year after surgery. BJS Open. 2023 Jan 6;7(1):zrac162. doi: 10.1093/bjsopen/zrac162.
PubMed 36734959Gluppe SL, Hilde G, Tennfjord MK, Engh ME, Bo K. Effect of a Postpartum Training Program on the Prevalence of Diastasis Recti Abdominis in Postpartum Primiparous Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Phys Ther. 2018 Apr 1;98(4):260-268. doi: 10.1093/ptj/pzy008.
PubMed 29351646Pascoal AG, Dionisio S, Cordeiro F, Mota P. Inter-rectus distance in postpartum women can be reduced by isometric contraction of the abdominal muscles: a preliminary case-control study. Physiotherapy. 2014 Dec;100(4):344-8. doi: 10.1016/j.physio.2013.11.006. Epub 2014 Jan 18.
PubMed 24559692Berg-Poppe P, Hauer M, Jones C, Munger M, Wethor C. Use of exercise in the management of postpartum diastasis recti: a systematic review. The Journal of Women's & Pelvic Health Physical Therapy. 2022;46(1):35-47.
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 28 Nov 2025. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Effects of Transverse Abdominis Activation and Rectus Abdominis Strengthening on Inter-rectus Distance and Core Stability Among Patients With Diastasis Rectus Abdominis
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07253844
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- TrA RA IRD DRA / UBAS/ERB/FoRS/25/025
- Conditions
- Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA)
- Keywords
- Diastasis Rectus Abdominus, Inter rectus distance, Rectus abdominus strenghtheing
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Not yet recruiting
- Enrolment
- 33 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- Lahore University of Biological and Applied SciencesUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 25 Nov 2025 (estimated)
- Primary completion
- 25 May 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 30 May 2026 (estimated)
- First posted
- 28 Nov 2025 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effects of Transverse Abdominis (TrA) activation, Rectus Abdominis (RA) strengthening, and their combined approach on inter-rectus distance (IRD) and core stability in postpartum women diagnosed with diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA). Thirty-three participants will be randomly allocated into three groups and will complete a six-week exercise program at the Pakistan Society for the Rehabilitation of the Disabled (PSRD) Hospital, Lahore. The study will use real-time ultrasound and pressure biofeedback assessment to evaluate changes in IRD and core stability. It is hypothesized that TrA activation and the combined intervention will produce greater improvements compared to RA strengthening alone.
Detailed description
Background and Rationale:
Diastasis Rectus Abdominis (DRA) is a prevalent postpartum musculoskeletal condition characterized by the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles along the linea alba, resulting in impaired trunk stability, abdominal weakness, and postural dysfunction. Despite its high prevalence, DRA remains underdiagnosed and undertreated, particularly in developing countries where structured rehabilitation protocols are lacking. Physiotherapy-based interventions focusing on abdominal muscle retraining and core stability have been shown to improve outcomes; however, the relative effectiveness of Transverse Abdominis (TrA) activation, Rectus Abdominis (RA) strengthening, and their combined approach remains uncertain.
Objectives:
This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effects of TrA activation, RA strengthening, and their combination on inter-rectus distance (IRD) and core stability among postpartum women with DRA.
Methods:
This three-arm, parallel-group randomized controlled trial will be conducted at the Pakistan Society for the Rehabilitation of the Disabled (PSRD) Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan. A total of 33 postpartum women aged 20-40 years, diagnosed with DRA (6 months to 2 years postpartum), will be recruited using non-probability convenience sampling. Participants will be randomly assigned into three groups (n = 11 per group):
Group A (TAA): Transverse Abdominis Activation exercises
Group B (RAS): Rectus Abdominis Strengthening exercises
Group C (TAA + RAS): Combined TrA activation and RA strengthening protocol
Each participant will undergo a 6-week intervention program, including three supervised sessions per week for 3 weeks, followed by a 3-week home exercise program. Each session will last 30-45 minutes and will be supervised by a licensed physical therapist at PSRD.
Outcome Measures:
Primary Outcome: Change in Inter-Rectus Distance (IRD), measured via real-time ultrasound imaging (7.5 MHz linear probe) at three anatomical sites (4.5 cm above, at, and 4.5 cm below the umbilicus), pre- and post-intervention.
Secondary Outcome: Core stability, assessed using a Pressure Biofeedback Unit (PBU) during the abdominal drawing-in maneuver (ADIM) in crook-lying position. Participants will aim to reduce pressure by 6-10 mmHg from a 40 mmHg baseline and sustain the contraction for 10 seconds; the mean of three trials will be recorded.
Randomization and Blinding:
Participants will be randomized using Randomized Allocation Software (Version 1.0) in a 1:1:1 ratio. Due to the exercise-based nature of the interventions, blinding of participants and therapists is not feasible; however, the outcome assessor will remain blinded to group assignments, ensuring a single-blind design.
Data Analysis:
Statistical analysis will be performed using SPSS version 26. Data will first be tested for normality using the Shapiro-Wilk test. A two-way mixed ANOVA will be applied to assess both within-subject effects (time: pre vs. post) and between-subject effects (group: TAA, RAS, TAA+RAS), as well as the interaction effect (time × group) on IRD and core stability outcomes. Post-hoc pairwise comparisons with Bonferroni correction will identify specific between-group differences. Statistical significance will be set at p < 0.05 with a 95% confidence interval.
Expected Clinical Significance:
It is hypothesized that TrA activation exercises will lead to a greater reduction in IRD and improvement in core stability compared to RA strengthening alone. The combined exercise group (TAA + RAS) is expected to demonstrate the most comprehensive benefits due to synergistic activation of both deep and superficial abdominal muscles. The study outcomes are anticipated to provide evidence-based guidance for physiotherapists in postpartum rehabilitation, contributing to the development of standardized, non-invasive exercise protocols for DRA management and improved quality of life in postpartum women.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind (outcomes assessor)
- Number of arms
- 3
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Group A (Transverse abdominis activation) | Experimental | Other: Transverse Abdominis activation exercises |
| Group B (Rectus abdominis strengthening) | Experimental | Other: Rectus Abdominis Strengthening exercises |
| Group C (Transverse abdominis activation +rectus abdominis strengthening) | Experimental | Other: combined protocol of both transverse abdominis activation and rectus abdominis strengthening. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 20 to 40 years
- Sex
- Female only
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (3 listed)
- . Postpartum women diagnosed with DRA
- Multigravida
- Delivered a singleton pregnancy via vaginal breech or instrumental delivery
Key exclusion criteria (4 listed)
- . Pregnancy
- Abdominal and pelvic hernias or severe musculoskeletal conditions
- Patients with abdominal and pelvic surgery
- Patients with disc herniation
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Transverse Abdominis activation exercisesGroup A (TAA) will perform abdominal drawing-in maneuvers (ADIM) in crook lying, side lying, and quadruped positions. They will be instructed to gently draw the belly button inward toward the spine without moving the pelvis or rib cage, emphasizing breathing coordination and pelvic floor co-activation. In the supervised phase, participants will perform 3 sets of 10 repetitions, with each contraction held for 10-20 seconds, and a rest interval of 3 minutes between sets | Other | Group A (Transverse abdominis activation) |
| Rectus Abdominis Strengthening exercisesGroup B (RAS) will perform exercises in supine lying with knees bent, including partial curl-ups, reverse crunches, pelvic tilts, and leg raises with abdominal bracing. The command will be tighten your abdominals as if bracing for a punch, and lift without straining your neck. Each supervised session will include 3 sets of 10-15 repetitions per exercise, progressing in difficulty using added resistance if tolerated, with a 3-minute rest interval between sets | Other | Group B (Rectus abdominis strengthening) |
| combined protocol of both transverse abdominis activation and rectus abdominis strengthening.Group C (TAA+RAS) will perform a hybrid protocol integrating both TrA activation and RA strengthening exercises. Each session will begin with ADIM in crook lying, side lying, and quadruped positions, followed by RA exercises including curl-ups, pelvic tilts, and leg raises. The command will be to activate your deep core with breathing, then strengthen your outer abdominals through controlled movements. Each supervised session will consist of 3 sets of 10 repetitions for TrA exercises (10-20 seconds hold) and 3 sets of 10-15 repetitions for RA exercises, with a rest period of 3 minutes between all sets. | Other | Group C (Transverse abdominis activation +rectus abdominis strengthening) |
Primary outcome
Inter-rectus Distance (IRD)
Time frame: Baseline: Before starting the intervention Post-intervention: At the end of 6 weeks of the exercise program
The Inter-rectus Distance (IRD) is the measurement of the separation between the two rectus abdominis muscles along the linea alba. It is assessed using ultrasound imaging while the participant is in a supine position with knees bent.. A high-frequency (7.5 MHz) linear probe will be placed on the abdomen while the patient lies on their back. Images will be taken at three points above, at, and below the belly button.
1 secondary outcome
Core stability
Time frame: Baseline (pre-intervention) and 6 weeks (post-intervention)
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 28 Nov 2025.
- Background: PubMed 30217494Benjamin DR, Frawley HC, Shields N, van de Water ATM, Taylor NF. Relationship between diastasis of the rectus abdominis muscle (DRAM) and musculoskeletal dysfunctions, pain and quality of life: a systematic review. Physiotherapy. 2019 Mar;105(1):24-34. doi: 10.1016/j.physio.2018.07.002. Epub 2018 Jul 24.
- Background: PubMed 36734959Olsson A, Woxnerud K, Kiwanuka O, Sandblom G, Stackelberg O. The TOR concept (training, operation, and rehabilitation) applied to a cohort of postpartum women with training-resistant symptomatic rectus diastasis: evaluation 1 year after surgery. BJS Open. 2023 Jan 6;7(1):zrac162. doi: 10.1093/bjsopen/zrac162.
- Background: PubMed 29351646Gluppe SL, Hilde G, Tennfjord MK, Engh ME, Bo K. Effect of a Postpartum Training Program on the Prevalence of Diastasis Recti Abdominis in Postpartum Primiparous Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Phys Ther. 2018 Apr 1;98(4):260-268. doi: 10.1093/ptj/pzy008.
- Background: PubMed 24559692Pascoal AG, Dionisio S, Cordeiro F, Mota P. Inter-rectus distance in postpartum women can be reduced by isometric contraction of the abdominal muscles: a preliminary case-control study. Physiotherapy. 2014 Dec;100(4):344-8. doi: 10.1016/j.physio.2013.11.006. Epub 2014 Jan 18.
- BackgroundBerg-Poppe P, Hauer M, Jones C, Munger M, Wethor C. Use of exercise in the management of postpartum diastasis recti: a systematic review. The Journal of Women's & Pelvic Health Physical Therapy. 2022;46(1):35-47.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: Yes. De-identified individual participant data (IPD) will be shared, including demographic characteristics (age, parity, BMI), baseline and post-intervention ultrasound measurements of inter-rectus distance (IRD), abdominal muscle strength scores, and functional outcome or patient-reported measures related to abdominal function. Data will also include group allocation (Transverse Abdominis Activation or Rectus Abdominis Strengthening) for analysis comparison. All shared data will be stripped of any personal identifiers to ensure participant confidentiality. The shared dataset will be available in a coded format for secondary analysis and research transparency purposes only.
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part.
Muhammad tariq Shafi, BSPT,tDPT study chair
Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences
2 sites in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Transverse Abdominis activation exercises, Rectus Abdominis Strengthening exercises and combined protocol of both transverse abdominis activation and rectus abdominis strengthening. in people with Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA), run by Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences at 2 sites in Pakistan.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 3 inclusion and 4 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: opening soon, as of the sponsor's last update on 28 Nov 2025. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 2 sites in Pakistan. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
Contact Attia Mehboob, Doctor of Physical Therapy (+923230016002, attiakhan455@gmail.com), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Inter-rectus Distance (IRD) (time frame: Baseline: Before starting the intervention Post-intervention: At the end of 6 weeks of the exercise program). It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT07253844, which also lists 5 linked publications.
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 28 Nov 2025.