Comparision of the effect of pilates and core stability exercises on diastasis recti, pain, functional disability and quality of life of primiparous mothers with nonspecific low back pain

Introduction: Aim of the present study was to compare the effect of pilates and core stability exercises on diastasis recti, pain, functional disability and quality of life of primiparous mothers with nonspecific low back pain. Methodology: A total of 20 primiparous mothers between the ages of 20 and 30 were included in the study based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. At the pre-test stage, subject's diastasis recti, pain, functional disability and quality of life were assessed by ultrasound device, VAS visual scale, Oswestery questionnaire and SF36 questionnaire, respectively. Subjects in exercise groups then performed their respective exercises for 8 weeks. At the end of 8 weeks, all study variables were examined again in the post-test stage. Two-way analysis of variance was used to statistically analyze the research findings at a significance level of P≤0.05. Findings: The results of two-way analysis of variance showed that in both training groups, the variables of diastasis recti, pain, functional disability and quality of life of the subjects in the post-test improved significantly compared to the pre-test. Also, the results of two-way analysis of variance showed that in the post-test stage, there is no significant difference between the mean of the studied variables between the two training groups. Discussion: Pilates and core stability exercises due to ongoing stimulation of sub- maximal contractions and correction of movement patterns by invoking and increasing the strength and coordination of the body's core stabilizer muscles, plays a significant role in improving diastasis recti, pain, function and quality of life in primiparous mothers with nonspecific low back pain.