Description

We performed a systematic review of observational studies through Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases. Studies evaluating the link between DRA and self-reported symptoms were searched using the following terms: “Diastasis rectus abdominis”, “Diastasis recti”, “Abdominis Rectus Muscle Diastasis”, “Questionnaire”, “Scale”, “Survey”, “Interview”, “Index” and “Inventory”.

The methodological quality was assessed independently by two evaluators using the NIH Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies.

We found that DRA presents with reduced quality of life due to compromised physical health and functioning; poorer physical perception; lower body image satisfaction; and higher degrees of abdominal pain that is frequently perceived as discomfort or bloating.