Publication:

Effectiveness of Kinesio taping along with core strengthening exercises on diastasis recti abdominis following full term normal delivery in primiparous females: an experimental study

Background Diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) is a common musculoskeletal condition in postpartum women which is characterized by separation of the rectus abdominis muscles due to stretching of the linea alba. It affects functional stability, posture, and quality of life. Conservative physiotherapy interventions such as core strengthening exercises and Kinesio taping (KT) have shown potential benefits. However, limited literature exists on their combined effect in primiparous females following normal vaginal delivery.

Methods This experimental study included 33 primiparous females aged 18–35 years, in 4–6 weeks postpartum period following full-term normal delivery. The participants were selected using purposive sampling. Baseline diastasis recti abdominis was measured using Vernier calipers. All the participants underwent a 4-week intervention consisting of Kinesio taping along with progressive core strengthening exercises. Post-intervention measurements were recorded, and data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed rank test.

Results The mean pre-intervention DRA value was 3.17±0.47 cm, which reduced to 2.79±0.38 cm post-intervention. Statistical analysis showed a significant reduction in the inter-recti distance (W=465, p<0.001), with a mean difference of 0.40 cm (95% CI: 0.35-0.50). The effect size was large (r=1), indicating strong clinical significance.

Conclusions The combination of Kinesio taping and core strengthening exercises is effective in reducing diastasis recti abdominis in primiparous females following a full term normal vaginal delivery. This combined intervention can be recommended as a non-invasive and clinically effective approach for postpartum rehabilitation.