Clarifying the Impact: Does Diastasis Recti Correction Truly Alleviate Low Back Pain?

INTRODUCTION

Low back pain (LBP) significantly impairs quality of life and is frequently associated with diastasis recti abdominis (DRA), particularly in postpartum women. This study aims to evaluate the impact of lipoabdominoplasty with rectus muscle plication on LBP, core function, and health-related quality of life (HRQL) in women with DRA.

METHODS

We prospectively enrolled female patients who underwent lipoabdominoplasty with rectus muscle plication in 2023 for DRA correction (2-10 cm). Exclusion criteria included BMI ≥ 35 kg/m, hernias, prior abdominal wall surgery, major comorbidities, and unrealistic expectations. Pain and function were assessed preoperatively (T0) and postoperatively at 6 months (T1) and 12 months (T2) using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) for LBP and BODY-Q Physical Function and Symptoms domains. Complication rates were recorded.

RESULTS

A total of 42 patients met inclusion criteria. Mean NRS scores decreased from 5.6 ± 1.2 at T0 to 2.9 ± 1.1 at T1 and 2.3 ± 1.0 at T2 (p < 0.001). BODY-Q Physical Function scores improved from 56.2 ± 8.4 at T0 to 75.5 ± 7.9 at T2 (p < 0.001). Physical Symptoms domain scores increased from 58.6 ± 9.1 to 78.3 ± 8.5 (p < 0.001). Minor complications occurred in 5 patients (11.9%), with no major adverse events.

CONCLUSION

Lipoabdominoplasty with rectus plication significantly reduced LBP and improved core function and HRQL in women with DRA. These findings support its functional benefits beyond aesthetics.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

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