Diastasis recti abdominis in adult women based on abdominal computed tomography imaging: Prevalence, risk factors and its impact on life

Aims and objectives This study aimed to obtain the incidence of diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) and analyse possible risk factors in adult females. Moreover, the relationships between DRA and lower back pain, pelvic floor function and quality of life were also analysed. Background Diastasis recti abdominis is a separation of the abdominal muscles at the linea alba. Currently, studies on the prevalence rates, risk factors and consequences of DRA are varied. In particular, reports on DRA among adult women are lacking. Design A one-sample questionnaire study design is used following the STROBE checklist. Methods The inter-rectus distance was measured by computed tomography in 644 women. Custom questionnaires, the Oswestry Disability Index, The International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Urinary Incontinence Short Form and the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) were used to investigate personal information, the subjects' back pain, pelvic floor function and quality of life, respectively. Results The incidence of DRA was 28.4%. Age, the number of pregnancies, BMI and diabetes were influencing factors for DRA. After age stratification, pregnancy and diabetes were found to be risk factors for DRA in young women, and obesity and diabetes were risk factors for DRA in older women. This study showed that the association between DRA and low back pain was highly significant. Conclusions Diastasis recti abdominis is common in adult women. Avoiding multiple pregnancies, preventing diabetes and controlling weight may prevent DRA, which may be beneficial for decreasing low back pain in women. Relevance to clinical practice The findings have important implications for the health of adult women which can provide the basis for appropriate nursing implementation for DRA patients. The application of specific prevention and intervention measures for the risk factors may reduce the severity of low back pain.