Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA)DRA-BREATHNCT07389993
Diaphragm and Breathing Muscle Characteristics in Women With and Without Diastasis Recti Abdominis After Childbirth
An observational study of Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA), run by University of Patras at 1 site in Greece.
Trial summary
Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA) is a common condition experienced postpartum, in which the abdominal muscles separate along the midline of the abdomen due to stretching and thinning of the linea alba. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 to 50 years, women onlyHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA)
- What is being tested?
- Ultrasonographic assessment of the diaphragm and Inspiratory muscle testing
- How many people
- 42 participants
- Where
- 1 siteGreece
- Study dates
- 19 May 2025to 10 Jul 2026
- Phase
- Observational
- 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 50 years
- Women only
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult
Study population: Parous adult women from the local community (broader Achaia region) recruited through invitations and referrals and assessed in a clinical research setting.
Who may be able to join
- Female sex
- Aged 18 to 50 years
- Parous women (at least one previous childbirth)
- At least 6 months postpartum at the time of assessment (and within 5 years postpartum)
- Ability to understand and communicate in Greek
- Willingness to participate and provide informed consent
Who cannot join
- Current pregnancy
- Delivery within the previous 6 months
- History of severe chronic respiratory disease (e.g., chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic bronchitis, pulmonary emphysema, pulmonary fibrosis)
- Presence of connective tissue disorders
- Presence of neurological disorders
- Severe musculoskeletal conditions that could affect trunk or respiratory function or limit participation in testing procedures (severe low back pain, sciatica etc.)
- Previous abdominal surgery, with the exception of cesarean section
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
Greece1 site, 1 recruiting
- Recruiting
Laboratory of Clinical Rehabilitation and Research (CPRlab), University of Patras
Pátrai, Achaia, 26504
Anastasia Skoura, PhD, 00306947784948, a.skoura@upatras.gr
Katerina Afroditi Chalki, BSc
About this study
Official title: Diaphragm Characteristics and Respiratory Muscle Function in Parous Women With and Without Diastasis Recti Abdominis
Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA) is a common condition experienced postpartum, in which the abdominal muscles separate along the midline of the abdomen due to stretching and thinning of the linea alba. It's a common condition, affecting 66-100% of women post-birth and may be associated with changes in abdominal support, posture, breathing, and trunk function. Although DRA primarily affects the muscles of the abdominal wall, it is speculated that other muscles controlling and stabilizing the trunk, such as the pelvic floor muscles or the diaphragm, might be affected as well. Currently, several studies have investigated the possible negative effects of DRA on pelvic floor function. However, little is known about how it may be related to diaphragm function and accessory breathing muscles.
The purpose of this observational study is to compare diaphragm characteristics and function, and accessory breathing muscle strength in women who have given birth, with and without DRA.
To make this possible, adult parous women from the broader Achaia region are assessed and allocated into two predefined groups based on the presence or absence of DRA. Participants undergo a single assessment session including rehabilitative ultrasound imaging (RUSI) of the diaphragm and standardized tests of inspiratory muscle strength. Additional demographic and clinical information related to pregnancy and physical activity is also recorded. The main hypothesis of this study is that women with DRA demonstrate altered diaphragm function, as well as reduced inspiratory muscle strength, compared to women without DRA. The study aims to improve understanding of the possible relationship between DRA and breathing function after childbirth and to support future research and rehabilitation approaches for women with the condition.
Read the detailed description
Diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) is a common postpartum condition, characterized by stretching and thinning of the linea alba and separation of the two rectus abdominis muscles along the midline of the abdomen. Beyond cosmetic concerns, DRA has been associated with impaired abdominal wall function, altered trunk stability, and potential changes in respiratory mechanics due to the close anatomical and functional relationship between the abdominal muscles and the diaphragm.
The diaphragm plays a central role in respiration and trunk stabilization, working synergistically with the abdominal wall to regulate intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) and postural control. Alterations in abdominal wall integrity, such as those observed in DRA, may therefore influence diaphragm function and mobility, as well as overall respiratory muscle performance. However, evidence regarding the relationship between DRA and diaphragm function currently remains limited.
This observational, cross-sectional study aims to examine diaphragm characteristics and inspiratory muscle strength in parous women with and without DRA. Participants are allocated into two predefined groups according to the presence or absence of DRA, based on a standardized imaging assessment.
Diaphragm function is assessed using rehabilitative ultrasound imaging (RUSI) techniques, performed by a trained physiotherapist, following standardized procedures. Ultrasound images are obtained during specific breathing maneuvers to determine diaphragm thickness and excursion. Inspiratory muscle strength is assessed using a standardized procedure to test maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), S-Index and Peak Inspiratory Pressure (PIF) using a POWERbreathe KH2 device. All measurements are conducted during a single assessment session, and are led by three experienced physiotherapists. Furthermore, demographic data and relevant obstetric and clinical characteristics, such as age, body mass index (BMI), parity, and time since last delivery, are recorded to describe the study population.
The study aims to explore whether women with DRA demonstrate differences in diaphragm-related parameters and inspiratory muscle strength compared with women without DRA. By improving understanding of the interaction between the abdominal wall and respiratory muscles after childbirth, this research may contribute to the development of more targeted assessment strategies and rehabilitation approaches in postpartum care.
- Conditions
- Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA)
- Being tested
- Ultrasonographic assessment of the diaphragm, Inspiratory muscle testing
- Keywords
- diastasis recti, diaphragm, RUSI, inspiratory muscle strength
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Ultrasonographic assessment of the diaphragmDiagnostic test
Rehabilitative ultrasound imaging (RUSI) to assess diaphragm thickness and excursion under specific respiratory maneuvers.
Inspiratory muscle testingDiagnostic test
A standardized inspiratory muscle strength testing procedure using a POWERbreathe KH2 device to assess maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), S-Index and peak inspiratory flow (PIF).
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Women with diastasis recti abdominis | Parous women diagnosed with diastasis recti abdominis using a standardised ultrasonographic assessment to measure the inter-recti distance (IRD). Receives: Diagnostic Test: Ultrasonographic assessment of the diaphragm; Diagnostic Test: Inspiratory muscle testing | |
| Women without diastasis recti abdominis | Parous women without diastasis recti abdominis, as confirmed by standardized ultrasonographic assessment of inter-recti distance (IRD). Receives: Diagnostic Test: Ultrasonographic assessment of the diaphragm; Diagnostic Test: Inspiratory muscle testing |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Inspiratory diaphragm thickness
Diaphragm thickness measured via ultrasound in cm at the end of a full inspiration at a standardized anatomical location.
Measured: Baseline
Expiratory diaphragm thickness
Diaphragm thickness measured via ultrasound in cm at the end of a full expiration at a standardized anatomical location.
Measured: Baseline
Diaphragm excursion
Diaphragm excursion measured via ultrasound in cm during quiet respiration at 60% of inspiratory capacity (IC).
Measured: Baseline
Secondary outcomes (3)
Maximal Inspiratory Pressure (MIP)
Maximal Inspiratory Pressure (MIP) measured during a forceful inspiratory effort in cmΗ2Ο, using the POWERbreathe KH2 device.
Measured: Baseline
S-Index
S-Index, a strength estimate measured in cmH2O during a forceful inspiration performed using the POWERbreathe KH2 device.
Measured: Baseline
Peak Inspiratory Flow (PIF)
Peak Inspiratory Flow (PIF) measured in L/sec, during the same forceful inspiratory maneuver as SIndex, using the POWERbreathe KH2 device.
Measured: Baseline
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted5 Feb 2026
- Study start19 May 2025
- Primary completion3 Apr 2026
- Study completion10 Jul 2026 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Publications (29)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA)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
- Observational
- Observational model
- Cohort
- Time perspective
- Cross-sectional
- Enrolment
- 42 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- University of Patras
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Anastasia Skoura, University of Patras
- Investigators
- Evdokia Billis, PhD, Principal investigator, University of Patras
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07389993
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- DRA-BREATH-PILOT
- Acronym
- DRA-BREATH
- Status last verified
- Jun 2026
- First submitted
- 28 Jan 2026
- Last updated
- 9 Jun 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- Yes
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Publications
Beer GM, Schuster A, Seifert B, Manestar M, Mihic-Probst D, Weber SA. The normal width of the linea alba in nulliparous women. Clin Anat. 2009 Sep;22(6):706-11. doi: 10.1002/ca.20836.
PubMed 19637295Benjamin 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 30217494Skoura A, Billis E, Papanikolaou DT, Xergia S, Tsarbou C, Tsekoura M, Kortianou E, Maroulis I. Diastasis Recti Abdominis Rehabilitation in the Postpartum Period: A Scoping Review of Current Clinical Practice. Int Urogynecol J. 2024 Mar;35(3):491-520. doi: 10.1007/s00192-024-05727-1. Epub 2024 Feb 10.
PubMed 38340172Mota P, Pascoal AG, Carita AI, Bo K. Normal width of the inter-recti distance in pregnant and postpartum primiparous women. Musculoskelet Sci Pract. 2018 Jun;35:34-37. doi: 10.1016/j.msksp.2018.02.004. Epub 2018 Feb 20.
PubMed 29494833Hills NF, Graham RB, McLean L. Comparison of Trunk Muscle Function Between Women With and Without Diastasis Recti Abdominis at 1 Year Postpartum. Phys Ther. 2018 Oct 1;98(10):891-901. doi: 10.1093/ptj/pzy083.
PubMed 30011041Gluppe S, Ellstrom Engh M, Kari B. Women with diastasis recti abdominis might have weaker abdominal muscles and more abdominal pain, but no higher prevalence of pelvic floor disorders, low back and pelvic girdle pain than women without diastasis recti abdominis. Physiotherapy. 2021 Jun;111:57-65. doi: 10.1016/j.physio.2021.01.008. Epub 2021 Feb 13.
PubMed 33691943Boussuges A, Rives S, Finance J, Bregeon F. Assessment of diaphragmatic function by ultrasonography: Current approach and perspectives. World J Clin Cases. 2020 Jun 26;8(12):2408-2424. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v8.i12.2408.
PubMed 32607319Kolar P, Sulc J, Kyncl M, Sanda J, Cakrt O, Andel R, Kumagai K, Kobesova A. Postural function of the diaphragm in persons with and without chronic low back pain. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2012 Apr;42(4):352-62. doi: 10.2519/jospt.2012.3830. Epub 2011 Dec 21.
PubMed 22236541Hodges P, Kaigle Holm A, Holm S, Ekstrom L, Cresswell A, Hansson T, Thorstensson A. Intervertebral stiffness of the spine is increased by evoked contraction of transversus abdominis and the diaphragm: in vivo porcine studies. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2003 Dec 1;28(23):2594-601. doi: 10.1097/01.BRS.0000096676.14323.25.
PubMed 14652476Hodges PW, Butler JE, McKenzie DK, Gandevia SC. Contraction of the human diaphragm during rapid postural adjustments. J Physiol. 1997 Dec 1;505 ( Pt 2)(Pt 2):539-48. doi: 10.1111/j.1469-7793.1997.539bb.x.
PubMed 9423192Hodges PW, Cresswell AG, Daggfeldt K, Thorstensson A. In vivo measurement of the effect of intra-abdominal pressure on the human spine. J Biomech. 2001 Mar;34(3):347-53. doi: 10.1016/s0021-9290(00)00206-2.
PubMed 11182126Hodges PW, Eriksson AE, Shirley D, Gandevia SC. Intra-abdominal pressure increases stiffness of the lumbar spine. J Biomech. 2005 Sep;38(9):1873-80. doi: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2004.08.016.
PubMed 16023475Hodges PW, Gandevia SC. Changes in intra-abdominal pressure during postural and respiratory activation of the human diaphragm. J Appl Physiol (1985). 2000 Sep;89(3):967-76. doi: 10.1152/jappl.2000.89.3.967.
PubMed 10956340Hodges PW, Gandevia SC, Richardson CA. Contractions of specific abdominal muscles in postural tasks are affected by respiratory maneuvers. J Appl Physiol (1985). 1997 Sep;83(3):753-60. doi: 10.1152/jappl.1997.83.3.753.
PubMed 9292460Hodges PW, Heijnen I, Gandevia SC. Postural activity of the diaphragm is reduced in humans when respiratory demand increases. J Physiol. 2001 Dec 15;537(Pt 3):999-1008. doi: 10.1111/j.1469-7793.2001.00999.x.
PubMed 11744772
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 9 Jun 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Diaphragm Characteristics and Respiratory Muscle Function in Parous Women With and Without Diastasis Recti Abdominis
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07389993
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- DRA-BREATH / DRA-BREATH-PILOT
- Conditions
- Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA)
- Keywords
- diastasis recti, diaphragm, RUSI, inspiratory muscle strength
- Study type
- Observational
- Recruitment status
- Recruiting
- Enrolment
- 42 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- University of PatrasUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 19 May 2025 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 3 Apr 2026 (actual)
- Study completion
- 10 Jul 2026 (estimated)
- First posted
- 5 Feb 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.
Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA) is a common condition experienced postpartum, in which the abdominal muscles separate along the midline of the abdomen due to stretching and thinning of the linea alba. It's a common condition, affecting 66-100% of women post-birth and may be associated with changes in abdominal support, posture, breathing, and trunk function. Although DRA primarily affects the muscles of the abdominal wall, it is speculated that other muscles controlling and stabilizing the trunk, such as the pelvic floor muscles or the diaphragm, might be affected as well. Currently, several studies have investigated the possible negative effects of DRA on pelvic floor function. However, little is known about how it may be related to diaphragm function and accessory breathing muscles.
The purpose of this observational study is to compare diaphragm characteristics and function, and accessory breathing muscle strength in women who have given birth, with and without DRA.
To make this possible, adult parous women from the broader Achaia region are assessed and allocated into two predefined groups based on the presence or absence of DRA. Participants undergo a single assessment session including rehabilitative ultrasound imaging (RUSI) of the diaphragm and standardized tests of inspiratory muscle strength. Additional demographic and clinical information related to pregnancy and physical activity is also recorded. The main hypothesis of this study is that women with DRA demonstrate altered diaphragm function, as well as reduced inspiratory muscle strength, compared to women without DRA. The study aims to improve understanding of the possible relationship between DRA and breathing function after childbirth and to support future research and rehabilitation approaches for women with the condition.
Detailed description
Diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) is a common postpartum condition, characterized by stretching and thinning of the linea alba and separation of the two rectus abdominis muscles along the midline of the abdomen. Beyond cosmetic concerns, DRA has been associated with impaired abdominal wall function, altered trunk stability, and potential changes in respiratory mechanics due to the close anatomical and functional relationship between the abdominal muscles and the diaphragm.
The diaphragm plays a central role in respiration and trunk stabilization, working synergistically with the abdominal wall to regulate intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) and postural control. Alterations in abdominal wall integrity, such as those observed in DRA, may therefore influence diaphragm function and mobility, as well as overall respiratory muscle performance. However, evidence regarding the relationship between DRA and diaphragm function currently remains limited.
This observational, cross-sectional study aims to examine diaphragm characteristics and inspiratory muscle strength in parous women with and without DRA. Participants are allocated into two predefined groups according to the presence or absence of DRA, based on a standardized imaging assessment.
Diaphragm function is assessed using rehabilitative ultrasound imaging (RUSI) techniques, performed by a trained physiotherapist, following standardized procedures. Ultrasound images are obtained during specific breathing maneuvers to determine diaphragm thickness and excursion. Inspiratory muscle strength is assessed using a standardized procedure to test maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), S-Index and Peak Inspiratory Pressure (PIF) using a POWERbreathe KH2 device. All measurements are conducted during a single assessment session, and are led by three experienced physiotherapists. Furthermore, demographic data and relevant obstetric and clinical characteristics, such as age, body mass index (BMI), parity, and time since last delivery, are recorded to describe the study population.
The study aims to explore whether women with DRA demonstrate differences in diaphragm-related parameters and inspiratory muscle strength compared with women without DRA. By improving understanding of the interaction between the abdominal wall and respiratory muscles after childbirth, this research may contribute to the development of more targeted assessment strategies and rehabilitation approaches in postpartum care.
Study design
- Observational model
- Cohort
- Time perspective
- Cross-sectional
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Women with diastasis recti abdominis | – | Diagnostic Test: Ultrasonographic assessment of the diaphragm, Diagnostic Test: Inspiratory muscle testingParous women diagnosed with diastasis recti abdominis using a standardised ultrasonographic assessment to measure the inter-recti distance (IRD). |
| Women without diastasis recti abdominis | – | Diagnostic Test: Ultrasonographic assessment of the diaphragm, Diagnostic Test: Inspiratory muscle testingParous women without diastasis recti abdominis, as confirmed by standardized ultrasonographic assessment of inter-recti distance (IRD). |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 50 years
- Sex
- Female only
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
- Study population
- Parous adult women from the local community (broader Achaia region) recruited through invitations and referrals and assessed in a clinical research setting.
Key inclusion criteria (6 listed)
- Female sex
- Aged 18 to 50 years
- Parous women (at least one previous childbirth)
- At least 6 months postpartum at the time of assessment (and within 5 years postpartum)
- Ability to understand and communicate in Greek
Key exclusion criteria (7 listed)
- Current pregnancy
- Delivery within the previous 6 months
- History of severe chronic respiratory disease (e.g., chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic bronchitis, pulmonary emphysema, pulmonary fibrosis)
- Presence of connective tissue disorders
- Presence of neurological disorders
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Ultrasonographic assessment of the diaphragmRehabilitative ultrasound imaging (RUSI) to assess diaphragm thickness and excursion under specific respiratory maneuvers. | Diagnostic test | Women with diastasis recti abdominis, Women without diastasis recti abdominis |
| Inspiratory muscle testingA standardized inspiratory muscle strength testing procedure using a POWERbreathe KH2 device to assess maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), S-Index and peak inspiratory flow (PIF). | Diagnostic test | Women with diastasis recti abdominis, Women without diastasis recti abdominis |
Primary outcome
Inspiratory diaphragm thickness
Time frame: Baseline
Diaphragm thickness measured via ultrasound in cm at the end of a full inspiration at a standardized anatomical location.
Expiratory diaphragm thickness
Time frame: Baseline
Diaphragm thickness measured via ultrasound in cm at the end of a full expiration at a standardized anatomical location.
Diaphragm excursion
Time frame: Baseline
Diaphragm excursion measured via ultrasound in cm during quiet respiration at 60% of inspiratory capacity (IC).
3 secondary outcomes
Maximal Inspiratory Pressure (MIP)
Time frame: Baseline
S-Index
Time frame: Baseline
Peak Inspiratory Flow (PIF)
Time frame: Baseline
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 9 Jun 2026.
- Background: PubMed 19637295Beer GM, Schuster A, Seifert B, Manestar M, Mihic-Probst D, Weber SA. The normal width of the linea alba in nulliparous women. Clin Anat. 2009 Sep;22(6):706-11. doi: 10.1002/ca.20836.
- 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 38340172Skoura A, Billis E, Papanikolaou DT, Xergia S, Tsarbou C, Tsekoura M, Kortianou E, Maroulis I. Diastasis Recti Abdominis Rehabilitation in the Postpartum Period: A Scoping Review of Current Clinical Practice. Int Urogynecol J. 2024 Mar;35(3):491-520. doi: 10.1007/s00192-024-05727-1. Epub 2024 Feb 10.
- Background: PubMed 29494833Mota P, Pascoal AG, Carita AI, Bo K. Normal width of the inter-recti distance in pregnant and postpartum primiparous women. Musculoskelet Sci Pract. 2018 Jun;35:34-37. doi: 10.1016/j.msksp.2018.02.004. Epub 2018 Feb 20.
- Background: PubMed 30011041Hills NF, Graham RB, McLean L. Comparison of Trunk Muscle Function Between Women With and Without Diastasis Recti Abdominis at 1 Year Postpartum. Phys Ther. 2018 Oct 1;98(10):891-901. doi: 10.1093/ptj/pzy083.
- Background: PubMed 33691943Gluppe S, Ellstrom Engh M, Kari B. Women with diastasis recti abdominis might have weaker abdominal muscles and more abdominal pain, but no higher prevalence of pelvic floor disorders, low back and pelvic girdle pain than women without diastasis recti abdominis. Physiotherapy. 2021 Jun;111:57-65. doi: 10.1016/j.physio.2021.01.008. Epub 2021 Feb 13.
- Background: PubMed 32607319Boussuges A, Rives S, Finance J, Bregeon F. Assessment of diaphragmatic function by ultrasonography: Current approach and perspectives. World J Clin Cases. 2020 Jun 26;8(12):2408-2424. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v8.i12.2408.
- Background: PubMed 22236541Kolar P, Sulc J, Kyncl M, Sanda J, Cakrt O, Andel R, Kumagai K, Kobesova A. Postural function of the diaphragm in persons with and without chronic low back pain. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2012 Apr;42(4):352-62. doi: 10.2519/jospt.2012.3830. Epub 2011 Dec 21.
- Background: PubMed 14652476Hodges P, Kaigle Holm A, Holm S, Ekstrom L, Cresswell A, Hansson T, Thorstensson A. Intervertebral stiffness of the spine is increased by evoked contraction of transversus abdominis and the diaphragm: in vivo porcine studies. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2003 Dec 1;28(23):2594-601. doi: 10.1097/01.BRS.0000096676.14323.25.
- Background: PubMed 9423192Hodges PW, Butler JE, McKenzie DK, Gandevia SC. Contraction of the human diaphragm during rapid postural adjustments. J Physiol. 1997 Dec 1;505 ( Pt 2)(Pt 2):539-48. doi: 10.1111/j.1469-7793.1997.539bb.x.
- Background: PubMed 11182126Hodges PW, Cresswell AG, Daggfeldt K, Thorstensson A. In vivo measurement of the effect of intra-abdominal pressure on the human spine. J Biomech. 2001 Mar;34(3):347-53. doi: 10.1016/s0021-9290(00)00206-2.
- Background: PubMed 16023475Hodges PW, Eriksson AE, Shirley D, Gandevia SC. Intra-abdominal pressure increases stiffness of the lumbar spine. J Biomech. 2005 Sep;38(9):1873-80. doi: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2004.08.016.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No
Related trials for Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA)
Recruiting
Risk Factors and Exercise Effects on Abdominal Separation in Seniors
Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA), Aging
Active, not recruiting
Comparative Effects of Telerehabilitation Versus In-Person Core Stability Training in Postpartum Women
Postpartum, Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA)
Not yet recruiting
Effects of Transverse Abdominis Activation and Rectus Abdominis Strengthening on Inter-rectus Distance and Core Stability
Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA)
Not yet recruiting
Effect of Capacitive and Resistive Radiofrequency on Postpartum Diastasis Recti
Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA), Radiofrequency
Recruiting
Effects of Visceral Manipulation Combined with Kinesio Taping on Diastasis Recti, Pain Intensity, Stress Incontinence, Pelvic Floor Strength, and Overall Wellness in Postpartum Women
Diastasis Recti, Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA)
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.
Evdokia Billis, PhD principal investigator
University of Patras
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
An observational study of Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA), run by University of Patras at 1 site in Greece.
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 6 inclusion and 7 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 9 Jun 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 Greece. 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 Anastasia Skoura, PhD (00306947784948, a.skoura@upatras.gr), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Inspiratory diaphragm thickness (time frame: Baseline). The study lists 3 primary outcomes in all. 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 NCT07389993, which also lists 29 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 9 Jun 2026.