Background Postpartum diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) is a common musculoskeletal condition characterized by separation of the two bellies of the Rectus Abdominis along the linea alba following pregnancy. Although often considered a cosmetic concern, growing evidence suggests that DRA may influence lumbopelvic stability, trunk biomechanics, respiratory mechanics, pelvic floor function, and quality of life. In recent years, physiotherapy has emerged as a first-line conservative management strategy; however, consensus regarding optimal rehabilitation protocols remains limited. Objective To critically synthesize contemporary evidence regarding physiotherapy interventions for postpartum DRA, with emphasis on exercise-based rehabilitation, neuromuscular retraining, connective tissue adaptation, and functional outcomes. Methods A narrative literature review was conducted using electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, PEDro, and Google Scholar. Literature published between 2010 and 2026 was screened using predefined search terms related to postpartum women, DRA, physiotherapy, abdominal rehabilitation, and exercise therapy. Randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and clinical guidelines were included. Key Findings Current evidence supports the role of targeted exercise interventions, particularly deep abdominal activation, motor control retraining, pelvic floor muscle co-contraction, and functional core stabilization, in reducing inter-recti distance and improving trunk function. However, considerable heterogeneity exists in diagnostic criteria, measurement techniques, exercise dosage, and outcome reporting. Evidence for adjunctive modalities such as taping, biofeedback, abdominal binders, and electrostimulation remains preliminary. Conclusion Physiotherapy appears to offer clinically meaningful benefits in postpartum DRA management; however, standardized assessment methods and high-quality longitudinal trials are needed to establish evidence-based rehabilitation guidelines.
Garg et al. (Thu,) studied this question.