Diastasis Recti Abdominis (Postpartum)NCT07731724
Effects of Barre-Based Core Stability With and Without Tupler Technique on Core Strength, Inter Recti Distance, and Pelvic Floor Function Among Diastasis Recti Abdominis Patients
A study testing Barre-Based Core Stability Training (BBT) and Tupler Technique in people with Diastasis Recti Abdominis (Postpartum), run by Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences at 1 site in Pakistan.
Trial summary
This study will be a single blind, parallel group randomized controlled trial designed to evaluate the effectiveness of Barre-based core stability training with and without the Tupler Technique in postpartum women with Diastasis Recti Abdominis. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 to 40 years, women only
- Conditions the study is for
- Diastasis Recti Abdominis (Postpartum)
- What is being tested?
- Barre-Based Core Stability Training (BBT) and Tupler Technique
- Type of treatment
- Lifestyle or therapy programme
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 58 participants
- Where
- 1 sitePakistan
- Study dates
- 1 May 2026to 15 Oct 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 18 to 40 years
- Women only
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- Women aged 18-40 years
- Postpartum period between 6-12 months
- Diagnosed with stage I-II Diastasis Recti Abdominis
- Presence of symptoms such as abdominal weakness or back pain
- Ability to follow exercise instructions Exclusion Criteria
- Stage III Diastasis Recti Abdominis
Show all 9Show fewer
- Severe hernias or significant pelvic floor dysfunction
- Neurological, cardiovascular, or systemic conditions contraindicating exercise
- History of abdominal surgery or trauma affecting the abdominal wall
Who cannot join
None listed.
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
Pakistan1 site, 1 recruiting
- Recruiting
Punjab Rangers Teaching Hospital (PRTH), Ghurki Trust Teaching Hospital (GTTH)
Lahore, Punjab Province
Shoaib Waqas, 03024552109, shoaib.waqas@ubad.edu.pk
About this study
This study will be a single blind, parallel group randomized controlled trial designed to evaluate the effectiveness of Barre-based core stability training with and without the Tupler Technique in postpartum women with Diastasis Recti Abdominis. A total of 58 eligible participants will be recruited from postpartum care units and randomly assigned in a 1:1 allocation ratio to either an experimental group receiving Barre-based core stability training combined with the Tupler Technique or a control group receiving Barre-based core stability training alone.
Both interventions will be delivered under supervised conditions three times per week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 30-45 minutes. The Barre-based program focuses on controlled low impact movements aimed at improving deep core muscle activation, postural alignment, and neuromuscular coordination. The experimental group will additionally receive the Tupler Technique, which includes abdominal splinting, progressive core strengthening exercises, and neuromuscular re-education targeting approximation of the rectus abdominis muscles and improved abdominal wall function.
Read more
Outcome measures include inter-recti distance, core strength, and pelvic floor function. Secondary outcomes include postural stability and functional performance. Assessments will be conducted at baseline, mid-intervention (week 4), post-intervention (week 8), and follow-up (week 12) by blinded outcome assessors to minimize bias.
The purpose of this trial is to determine whether combining the Tupler Technique with Barre-based core stability training provides superior improvements in abdominal separation, core strength, pelvic floor function, and functional ability compared with Barre-based training alone in postpartum women.
Read the detailed description
Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA) is a postpartum musculoskeletal condition characterized by separation of the rectus abdominis muscles due to weakening of the linea alba, resulting in impaired core stability, reduced pelvic floor function, altered lumbopelvic mechanics, and decreased functional performance. Management is primarily conservative and involves exercise-based rehabilitation targeting abdominal wall integrity and neuromuscular control.
Barre-based core stability training is a low impact exercise intervention focusing on postural alignment, controlled movement, and activation of deep core musculature, including the transversus abdominis and pelvic floor muscles. The Tupler Technique is a structured rehabilitation program for DRA that includes abdominal splinting, progressive core strengthening, and neuromuscular re-education to improve rectus abdominis approximation and abdominal wall function.
This single blind, parallel group randomized controlled trial will recruit 58 postpartum women diagnosed with DRA. Participants will be randomly allocated using concealed assignment in a 1:1 ratio to either an experimental group receiving Barre-based core stability training combined with the Tupler Technique or a control group receiving Barre-based training alone.
Both groups will receive supervised interventions three times per week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting 30-45 minutes. The exercise protocol emphasizes controlled activation of deep core muscles, postural control, and safe functional movement patterns. The experimental group will additionally perform abdominal splinting and structured neuromuscular re-education as part of the Tupler Technique.
Outcome measures will include inter-recti distance, core strength, pelvic floor function, postural stability, and functional performance. Assessments will be conducted at baseline, week 4, week 8, and week 12 by blinded outcome assessors. Data will be analyzed to compare within group and between group changes over time, using appropriate statistical methods under an intention-to-treat approach.
The study evaluates whether adding the Tupler Technique to Barre-based core stability training provides superior improvements in abdominal separation, core stability, pelvic floor function, postural control, and functional ability in postpartum women with Diastasis Recti Abdominis.
- Conditions
- Diastasis Recti Abdominis (Postpartum)
- Being tested
- Barre-Based Core Stability Training (BBT), Tupler Technique
- Keywords
- Diastasis Recti Abdominis, Postpartum, Core Stability, Barre Training, Tupler Technique, Inter-Recti Distance, Pelvic Floor
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Barre-Based Core Stability Training (BBT)Behavioural
Barre-Based Core Stability Training is a low impact, structured exercise intervention designed to improve deep core muscle activation, postural alignment, and functional stability. It will include controlled movements such as pelvic tilts, glute bridges, modified planks, lower limb core-controlled exercises, and functional standing activities. The program will emphasize activation of the transversus abdominis and pelvic floor muscles through slow, controlled, and alignment focused exercises. Sessions will be conducted under supervision three times per week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting 30-45 minutes. This intervention will aim to enhance core strength, improve neuromuscular coordination, and support overall lumbopelvic stability.
Tupler TechniqueBehavioural
The Tupler Technique is a structured rehabilitation program specifically designed for the management of Diastasis Recti Abdominis. It will include abdominal splinting, progressive core strengthening exercises, and neuromuscular re-education techniques. The program will focus on activating and strengthening the transversus abdominis while promoting approximation of the rectus abdominis muscles to reduce inter-recti distance. Key components will include elevator exercises, controlled core engagement, and the use of abdominal support during functional activities to enhance abdominal wall integrity. In this study, the Tupler Technique will be delivered in combination with Barre-based training over 8 weeks with supervised sessions three times per week.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Barre-Based Core Stability with Tupler Technique (BBT+TT) | Experimental | Participants will receive supervised Barre-based core stability training combined with the Tupler Technique. The Barre program will include low impact controlled exercises such as pelvic tilts, glute bridges, modified planks, lower limb core controlled movements, and functional standing exercises to improve deep core activation and postural control. The Tupler Technique component will include abdominal splinting, elevator exercises, and structured neuromuscular re-education aimed at reducing inter recti distance and improving abdominal wall integrity. Sessions will be conducted three times per week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting 30-45 minutes. Receives: Behavioral: Barre-Based Core Stability Training (BBT); Behavioral: Tupler Technique |
| Barre-Based Core Stability Training (BBT) | Active comparator | Participants will receive supervised Barre-based core stability training alone. The program will include low-impact controlled exercises such as pelvic tilts, glute bridges, modified planks, lower limb core-controlled movements, and functional standing exercises aimed at improving deep core muscle activation, postural alignment, and functional stability. No Tupler Technique components such as abdominal splinting or neuromuscular re-education will be included. Sessions will be conducted three times per week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting 30-45 minutes. Receives: Behavioral: Barre-Based Core Stability Training (BBT) |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Inter-Recti Distance (IRD)
Inter-recti distance (IRD) will be measured to assess the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles in women with Diastasis Recti Abdominis. Measurements will be taken using ultrasound imaging and calipers at standardized anatomical points (above, at, and below the umbilicus). IRD will be recorded in centimeters. A reduction in IRD indicates improvement in abdominal wall integrity and core stability.
Measured: Baseline (Day 0), Week 4, Week 8, Week 12
Core Strength
Core strength will be assessed using the Modified Sahrmann Test, which evaluates lumbopelvic control and activation of deep core muscles during progressive lower limb movements. Performance will be scored based on the ability to maintain neutral spine alignment without compensatory movements such as pelvic tilt or abdominal bulging. Higher scores indicate better core strength and neuromuscular control.
Measured: Baseline (Day 0), Week 4, Week 8, Week 12
Pelvic Floor Function
Pelvic floor function will be assessed using the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20), a validated questionnaire measuring symptom severity related to urinary, colorectal, and prolapse distress. Scores range from 0 to 300, with higher scores indicating greater dysfunction. A reduction in score indicates improvement in pelvic floor function.
Measured: Baseline (Day 0), Week 4, Week 8, Week 12
Postural Stability
Postural Stability Postural stability will be assessed using the Balance Error Scoring System (BESS). Participants perform balance tasks in double-leg, single-leg, and tandem stance on firm and foam surfaces. Errors (e.g., stepping, loss of balance, opening eyes) are counted. Lower scores indicate better postural control.
Measured: Baseline (Day 0), Week 4, Week 8, Week 12
Functional Performance
Functional performance will be assessed using the Physical Functioning (PF-10) subscale of the SF-36 Health Survey. The scale evaluates limitations in activities such as walking, climbing stairs, lifting, and carrying objects. Scores range from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating better functional ability.
Measured: Baseline (Day 0), Week 4, Week 8, Week 12
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted28 Jul 2026
- Study start1 May 2026
- Primary completion15 Aug 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion15 Oct 2026 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Diastasis Recti Abdominis (Postpartum)Studies of the same condition, open and under way.
- 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
- 58 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
- Investigators
- WHO, Principal investigator, Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07731724
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- UBAS/ERB/26/04/016
- Status last verified
- Jul 2026
- First submitted
- 23 Jul 2026
- Last updated
- 28 Jul 2026
- Results posted
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 28 Jul 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Effects of Barre-Based Core Stability With and Without Tupler Technique on Core Strength, Inter Recti Distance, and Pelvic Floor Function Among Diastasis Recti Abdominis Patients
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07731724
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- UBAS/ERB/26/04/016
- Conditions
- Diastasis Recti Abdominis (Postpartum)
- Keywords
- Diastasis Recti Abdominis, Postpartum, Core Stability, Barre Training, Tupler Technique, Inter-Recti Distance, Pelvic Floor
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Recruiting
- Enrolment
- 58 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- Lahore University of Biological and Applied SciencesUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 1 May 2026 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 15 Aug 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 15 Oct 2026 (estimated)
- First posted
- 28 Jul 2026 (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 study will be a single blind, parallel group randomized controlled trial designed to evaluate the effectiveness of Barre-based core stability training with and without the Tupler Technique in postpartum women with Diastasis Recti Abdominis. A total of 58 eligible participants will be recruited from postpartum care units and randomly assigned in a 1:1 allocation ratio to either an experimental group receiving Barre-based core stability training combined with the Tupler Technique or a control group receiving Barre-based core stability training alone.
Both interventions will be delivered under supervised conditions three times per week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 30-45 minutes. The Barre-based program focuses on controlled low impact movements aimed at improving deep core muscle activation, postural alignment, and neuromuscular coordination. The experimental group will additionally receive the Tupler Technique, which includes abdominal splinting, progressive core strengthening exercises, and neuromuscular re-education targeting approximation of the rectus abdominis muscles and improved abdominal wall function.
Outcome measures include inter-recti distance, core strength, and pelvic floor function. Secondary outcomes include postural stability and functional performance. Assessments will be conducted at baseline, mid-intervention (week 4), post-intervention (week 8), and follow-up (week 12) by blinded outcome assessors to minimize bias.
The purpose of this trial is to determine whether combining the Tupler Technique with Barre-based core stability training provides superior improvements in abdominal separation, core strength, pelvic floor function, and functional ability compared with Barre-based training alone in postpartum women.
Detailed description
Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA) is a postpartum musculoskeletal condition characterized by separation of the rectus abdominis muscles due to weakening of the linea alba, resulting in impaired core stability, reduced pelvic floor function, altered lumbopelvic mechanics, and decreased functional performance. Management is primarily conservative and involves exercise-based rehabilitation targeting abdominal wall integrity and neuromuscular control.
Barre-based core stability training is a low impact exercise intervention focusing on postural alignment, controlled movement, and activation of deep core musculature, including the transversus abdominis and pelvic floor muscles. The Tupler Technique is a structured rehabilitation program for DRA that includes abdominal splinting, progressive core strengthening, and neuromuscular re-education to improve rectus abdominis approximation and abdominal wall function.
This single blind, parallel group randomized controlled trial will recruit 58 postpartum women diagnosed with DRA. Participants will be randomly allocated using concealed assignment in a 1:1 ratio to either an experimental group receiving Barre-based core stability training combined with the Tupler Technique or a control group receiving Barre-based training alone.
Both groups will receive supervised interventions three times per week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting 30-45 minutes. The exercise protocol emphasizes controlled activation of deep core muscles, postural control, and safe functional movement patterns. The experimental group will additionally perform abdominal splinting and structured neuromuscular re-education as part of the Tupler Technique.
Outcome measures will include inter-recti distance, core strength, pelvic floor function, postural stability, and functional performance. Assessments will be conducted at baseline, week 4, week 8, and week 12 by blinded outcome assessors. Data will be analyzed to compare within group and between group changes over time, using appropriate statistical methods under an intention-to-treat approach.
The study evaluates whether adding the Tupler Technique to Barre-based core stability training provides superior improvements in abdominal separation, core stability, pelvic floor function, postural control, and functional ability in postpartum women with Diastasis Recti Abdominis.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind (outcomes assessor)
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Barre-Based Core Stability with Tupler Technique (BBT+TT) | Experimental | Behavioral: Barre-Based Core Stability Training (BBT), Behavioral: Tupler TechniqueParticipants will receive supervised Barre-based core stability training combined with the Tupler Technique. The Barre program will include low impact controlled exercises such as pelvic tilts, glute bridges, modified planks, lower limb core controlled movements, and functional standing exercises to improve deep core activation and postural control. The Tupler Technique component will include abdominal splinting, elevator exercises, and structured neuromuscular re-education aimed at reducing inter recti distance and improving abdominal wall integrity. Sessions will be conducted three times per week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting 30-45 minutes. |
| Barre-Based Core Stability Training (BBT) | Active comparator | Behavioral: Barre-Based Core Stability Training (BBT)Participants will receive supervised Barre-based core stability training alone. The program will include low-impact controlled exercises such as pelvic tilts, glute bridges, modified planks, lower limb core-controlled movements, and functional standing exercises aimed at improving deep core muscle activation, postural alignment, and functional stability. No Tupler Technique components such as abdominal splinting or neuromuscular re-education will be included. Sessions will be conducted three times per week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting 30-45 minutes. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 40 years
- Sex
- Female only
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (9 listed)
- Women aged 18-40 years
- Postpartum period between 6-12 months
- Diagnosed with stage I-II Diastasis Recti Abdominis
- Presence of symptoms such as abdominal weakness or back pain
- Ability to follow exercise instructions Exclusion Criteria
Key exclusion criteria (0 listed)
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Barre-Based Core Stability Training (BBT)Barre-Based Core Stability Training is a low impact, structured exercise intervention designed to improve deep core muscle activation, postural alignment, and functional stability. It will include controlled movements such as pelvic tilts, glute bridges, modified planks, lower limb core-controlled exercises, and functional standing activities. The program will emphasize activation of the transversus abdominis and pelvic floor muscles through slow, controlled, and alignment focused exercises. Sessions will be conducted under supervision three times per week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting 30-45 minutes. This intervention will aim to enhance core strength, improve neuromuscular coordination, and support overall lumbopelvic stability. | Behavioural | Barre-Based Core Stability Training (BBT), Barre-Based Core Stability with Tupler Technique (BBT+TT) |
| Tupler TechniqueThe Tupler Technique is a structured rehabilitation program specifically designed for the management of Diastasis Recti Abdominis. It will include abdominal splinting, progressive core strengthening exercises, and neuromuscular re-education techniques. The program will focus on activating and strengthening the transversus abdominis while promoting approximation of the rectus abdominis muscles to reduce inter-recti distance. Key components will include elevator exercises, controlled core engagement, and the use of abdominal support during functional activities to enhance abdominal wall integrity. In this study, the Tupler Technique will be delivered in combination with Barre-based training over 8 weeks with supervised sessions three times per week. | Behavioural | Barre-Based Core Stability with Tupler Technique (BBT+TT) |
Primary outcome
Inter-Recti Distance (IRD)
Time frame: Baseline (Day 0), Week 4, Week 8, Week 12
Inter-recti distance (IRD) will be measured to assess the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles in women with Diastasis Recti Abdominis. Measurements will be taken using ultrasound imaging and calipers at standardized anatomical points (above, at, and below the umbilicus). IRD will be recorded in centimeters. A reduction in IRD indicates improvement in abdominal wall integrity and core stability.
Core Strength
Time frame: Baseline (Day 0), Week 4, Week 8, Week 12
Core strength will be assessed using the Modified Sahrmann Test, which evaluates lumbopelvic control and activation of deep core muscles during progressive lower limb movements. Performance will be scored based on the ability to maintain neutral spine alignment without compensatory movements such as pelvic tilt or abdominal bulging. Higher scores indicate better core strength and neuromuscular control.
Pelvic Floor Function
Time frame: Baseline (Day 0), Week 4, Week 8, Week 12
Pelvic floor function will be assessed using the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20), a validated questionnaire measuring symptom severity related to urinary, colorectal, and prolapse distress. Scores range from 0 to 300, with higher scores indicating greater dysfunction. A reduction in score indicates improvement in pelvic floor function.
Postural Stability
Time frame: Baseline (Day 0), Week 4, Week 8, Week 12
Postural Stability Postural stability will be assessed using the Balance Error Scoring System (BESS). Participants perform balance tasks in double-leg, single-leg, and tandem stance on firm and foam surfaces. Errors (e.g., stepping, loss of balance, opening eyes) are counted. Lower scores indicate better postural control.
Functional Performance
Time frame: Baseline (Day 0), Week 4, Week 8, Week 12
Functional performance will be assessed using the Physical Functioning (PF-10) subscale of the SF-36 Health Survey. The scale evaluates limitations in activities such as walking, climbing stairs, lifting, and carrying objects. Scores range from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating better functional ability.
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 Jul 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No
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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.
WHO principal investigator
Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Barre-Based Core Stability Training (BBT) and Tupler Technique in people with Diastasis Recti Abdominis (Postpartum), run by Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences at 1 site 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 9 inclusion and 0 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: looking for participants now, as of the sponsor's last update on 28 Jul 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site 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 Hafsa Liaquat (0349-4202195, hafsaliaquat39@gmail.com), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Inter-Recti Distance (IRD) (time frame: Baseline (Day 0), Week 4, Week 8, Week 12). The study lists 5 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
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 Jul 2026.