산후 여성의 복직근 이개와 골반저근 기능 저하의 연관성에 관한 종설 = The Relationship Between Diastasis Recti Abdominis and Pelvic Floor Muscle Dysfunction in Postpartum Women: A Review

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

This narrative review aimed to examine the association between diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) and pelvic floor muscle dysfunction in postpartum women from anatomical and biomechanical perspectives, and to integratively present related functional problems and clinical intervention strategies. A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library, covering studies published between 2000 and 2024. The search terms included ‘diastasis recti’, ‘linea alba’, ‘pelvic floor’, ‘postpartum’, ‘core stabilization’ and ‘biofeedback’ Studies involv-ing postpartum women that assessed DRA and pelvic floor muscle function and reported the effects of exercise, physical therapy, biofeedback, and neuromuscular re-education interventions were included. Data interpretation was performed using qualitative content analysis. The findings indicated that DRA and pelvic floor muscle dysfunction are associated with impaired intra-abdominal pressure regulation and delayed co-activation of the transversus abdominis and pelvic floor muscles, leading to functional problems such as reduced trunk stability, urinary incontinence, decreased pelvic organ support, and abdominal protrusion. Integrated rehabilitation approaches combining transversus abdominis strengthening, voluntary pelvic floor muscle contraction training, manual therapy, and biofeedback demonstrated the most consistent therapeutic effects. Diastasis recti abdominis and pelvic floor muscle dysfunction should not be understood as independent pathologies, but rather as manifestations of dysfunction within a unified pressure regulation system. Therefore, clinical interventions should extend beyond isolated muscle strengthening and be centered on integrated re-education of breathing, posture, intra-abdominal pressure control, and neuromuscular coordination. Future research should focus on standardizing assessment criteria, establishing stage-specific intervention intensity and dosage, and conducting long-term follow-up studies to strengthen the evidence base for postpartum rehabilitation protocols.