Abstract
Introduction: To investigate effects of Mat Pilates program on inter-recti distance, waist circumference and trunk muscle endurance in primiparous woman having post-partum diastasis recti. Diastasis rectus abdominis occurs when inter-recti distance (IRD) becomes more than 2 cm at umbilicus levels or an upper or lower point of umbilicus during pregnancy and after childbirth. Pilates is expected to positively affect women with weak abdominal muscles after childbirth. Methods: 31-year-old primiparous woman having diastasis recti complaining of separation at navel level after 1st delivery was taken, having 156cm height and 48kgs weight. 8-weeks Mat Pilates exercise program including progression was given in physiotherapy department. Measuring tape was used to examine IRD at umbilicus, 2, 4 and 6 inches above umbilicus and 2 inches below. Pressure biofeedback was used to assess endurance of trunk muscles, manual muscle testing was done to access strength of trunk muscles and waist circumference was measured using measuring tape. Descriptive analysis of data was done and results were reported. Result: There was significant reduction in IRD of 2.5cm, 3.5cm, 3cm, 4cm above 6-inch, 4-inch, 2-inch and at level of umbilicus respectively and 2.5 cm at 2-inch below level of umbilicus. Core strength of transversus abdominis improved from 1set (10sec x1time) hold to 4 set (10sec x4 times) and multifidus improved from 1set (10secx1time) hold to 5 sets (10secx5 times). Trunk muscle grades increased from grade-4 to 5. Waist circumference reduced upto 1.5 inches with overall 3kgs of weight loss. Conclusion: Mat Pilates program improves IRD, trunk muscle endurance and reduces waist circumference in postpartum Diastasis recti. Implication: Mat Pilates can be an important method of rehabilitation for improving IRD and trunk muscle endurance in postpartum women having diastasis recti.
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