Effect of Intraabdominal Hypopressive Exercises on Postnatal Backache and Functional Disability

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Hypopressive exercises are safe and beneficial for postpartum women. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of hypopressive exercises on back pain, lordosis, and functional limitation in postpartum women. Materials and Methods: A total of 40 postpartum women with abnormal hyperlordosis were randomly assigned into two equal groups. For eight weeks, the study group underwent hypopressive abdominal exercises three times a week in addition to receiving traditional treatment for lower back pain (LBP), whereas the control group only received the traditional treatment. Outcomes were measured using the Revised Short McGill Pain Questionnaire Version-2 (SF-MPQ-2), lumbar lordotic angle (LLA), and the Patient-Specific Functional Scale (PSFS). Results: Both groups showed significant post-treatment improvements (P < 0.05) in pain (SF-MPQ-2), lumbar lordosis (LLA), and functional status (PSFS). However, the study group achieved greater improvements in pain (53.82% vs. 32.58%), LLA (26.71% vs. 21.49%), and PSFS (88.35% vs. 79.13%). Between-group comparisons showed a significant post-treatment difference in pain reduction favoring the study group (P = 0.001), though differences in LLA (P = 0.070) and PSFS (P = 0.386) were not significant. Conclusion: Hypopressive exercises, when combined with traditional treatment, effectively reduce postpartum back pain and improve lumbar alignment and functional outcomes. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating hypopressive training into postpartum rehabilitation programs for women with abnormal hyperlordosis and back pain.