Efeito do Método Pilates na diastância inter-reto abdominal em mulheres com diástase dos reto abdominais

Abstract

Diastasis of the rectus abdominis muscles (DRAM) is a condition characterized by the separation of the abdominal rectus muscles along the linea alba. It is a common condition during pregnancy and may persist postpartum, compromising the function of the abdominal muscles. Despite its high prevalence and associated complaints, there is no consensus on the best treatment approach. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of exercises based on the Pilates Method on the inter-rectus distance (IRD) in women with DRAM. This randomized controlled clinical trial included 44 participants with an IRD greater than 2 cm. The participants were randomly allocated into two groups. The Pilates group performed Pilates Method exercises twice a week for 30 minutes over 12 weeks, while control group received no intervention during the study period. Before and after the 12-week period, the participants' IRD was assessed using ultrasound. Data were analyzed using the Repeated Measures ANOVA test. A significant reduction in IRD was observed in the supraumbilical region, both at rest and during trunk flexion, only in Pilates group after the intervention. No significant differences were found in the infraumbilical region. In conclusion, the 12-week Pilates Method intervention effectively reduced the IRD in the supraumbilical region of women with DRAM.