NFLUENCE OF RECTUS ABDOMINIS DIASTASIS ON DAILY ACTIVITIES

Abstract

Introduction. While for a long time rectus abdominis diastasis was largely associated with cosmetic issues, modern research increasingly demonstrates a spectrum of clinical symptoms that are clearly linked to the presence of rectus abdominis diastasis in patients: back and lower abdominal pain, urinary and fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and fixation. Materials and Methods. We conducted a clinical examination of 120 patients with rectus abdominis diastasis. Among the examined patients, there were 92 females (76.7%) and 28 males (23.3%). Type A according to Keramidas was present in 39 patients (32.5%), type B in 60 (50.0%), type C in 15 (12.5%), and type D in 6 (5.0%). The assessment of patients’ daily activity was conducted using the specialized Ventral Hernia Pain Questionnaire (VHPQ). Results. Problems with rising from a chair were reported by 36 patients (30.0%) (p=0.001; χ2=36.82). Discomfort while sitting on a chair was complained of by 23 patients (19.2%) (p=0.001; χ2=88.82). Problems with prolonged standing were present in 41 patients (34.2%) (p=0.001; χ2=22.82). Climbing stairs was difficult for 38 patients (31.7%) (p=0.001; χ2=30.82). Difficulties in driving a car were experienced by 6 patients (5.0%) (p=0.001; χ2=190.82). The majority of patients (62, 51.7%) experienced difficulties in performing sports or physical activities (p=0.698; χ2=0.15). Conclusions. Among patients with rectus abdominis diastasis, impairment of daily life quality and activities was observed in 69.2% of cases. Only 30.8% of patients perceived diastasis exclusively as a cosmetic problem. The frequency of manifestations depended on the severity of rectus abdominis diastasis.