Effectiveness of the Combination of Abdominal Corset and Deep Core Exercise on the Reduction of Diastasis of the Recti Abdominis Based on Parity in Postpartum Mothers

Background:The postpartum period induces significant musculoskeletal adaptations, often resulting in Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA), particularly among multiparous women due to cumulative mechanical strain and connective tissue laxity. Inadequate recovery of the linea alba is closely linked to chronic lumbopelvic instability and functional disability. Methods: A quasi-experimental study with a pre-test/post-test control group design was conducted from July to August 2026 at PMB Lia Nurmala in Jambi City. A total of 40 postpartum mothers meeting the inclusion criteria were enrolled via total sampling and allocated into two groups (n=20 each) the intervention group, which received a 21 day combined regimen of abdominal corset usage (6–8 hours daily) and structured deep core exercises, and the control group, which received standard postpartum care. Inter-rectus distance (IRD) was measured using a digital caliper across three anatomical reference points (upper, umbilical, and lower) under standardized crook-lying conditions. Data were analyzed using Shapiro Wilk normality tests, Paired T-tests, and Independent T-tests (p=0.05). Results: Following the 21-day intervention, the intervention group demonstrated a statistically significant and superior reduction in inter-rectus distance across all anatomical measurement points compared to the control group (p<0.001). The mean reduction differences between the intervention and control groups were 0.910 cm (upper), 0.870 cm (umbilical), and 0.825 cm (lower). Subgroup analysis based on parity indicated effective linea alba closure across both primiparous and multiparous participants, without statistically significant differences in reduction magnitude between parity groups (p>0.05). Conclusion: Combining mechanical support via an abdominal corset with targeted neuromuscular deep core exercises significantly accelerates the reduction of inter-rectus distance in postpartum mothers. This evidence-based rehabilitation protocol offers a practical, effective clinical approach for postpartum recovery across varying parity levels