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Combined Effects Of Stability Oriented Breathing Exercises and Kegel's Exercises in Postpartum Women
Sponsor: Riphah International University
Summary
The postpartum period often presents challenges such as increased inter-recti distance (diastasis recti), lumbopelvic pain, and reduced core strength. This study is designed as a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the combined effects of stability-oriented breathing exercises and Kegel exercises on inter-recti distance (IRD), lumbopelvic pain, and muscle strength in postpartum women. A total sample size of 66 participants per group was determined with a 10% dropout rate accounted for. The study will use a non-probability convenience sampling technique. It will be conducted at the University of Lahore Teaching Hospital and Sehat Medical complex. Inclusion criteria include women aged 18-40 years, with a history of cesarean sections, an IRD between 3-5 cm. Outcome measures include IRD , pelvic floor muscle strength, lumbopelvic pain (measured using a 10 cm numeric pain scale). Participants will be randomly assigned to either Group A (Kegel-only) or Group B (Kegel + breathing exercises). Both groups will train three times weekly for eight weeks. All data analysis will be performed using SPSS version 27.
Official title: Combined Effects Of Stability Oriented Breathing Exercises and Kegel's Exercises On Inter-recti Distance, Lumbopelvic Pain and Strength In Postpartum Women
Key Details
Gender
FEMALE
Age Range
18 Years - 40 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
60
Start Date
2025-08-31
Completion Date
2026-09
Last Updated
2026-04-09
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Stability Oriented Breathing Training
This included static breathing exercises (transverse, diaphragmatic, back, and pumping breathing) in the first two weeks, followed by resistance band breathing exercises targeting core and transversus abdominis activation in weeks 3 to 4. In the final four weeks, dynamic breathing exercises such as the pelvic clock and hundreds prep will be introduced to promote core stabilization under movement
kegels exercises
This group will be given kegel exercises in postpartum women. Sessions included a 10-minute warm-up of light jogging, walking, and stretching, followed by Kegel exercises starting with 10 repetitions per movement in the first two weeks and progressing to 15 repetitions in the following two weeks. In the later weeks, load was progressively increased by extending the duration of contractions (from 5 to 8 seconds) and adding dynamic limb movements. A 3-minute rest was provided between each set, and sessions concluded with a 5-minute cool-down
Locations (2)
UOL teaching hospital and sehat medical complex lahore
Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan
UOL teaching hospital and sehat medical complex
Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan