Effectiveness of a Structured Exercise Program in Reducing Postpartum Low Back Pain and Improving Functional Ability in Women Following Vaginal Delivery

Abstract

Background
Postpartum low back pain is a common musculoskeletal condition that can lead to functional limitations and
reduced quality of life in women following childbirth.
Objective
To evaluate the effectiveness of a structured exercise program in reducing low back pain and improving
functional ability among postpartum women following vaginal delivery.
Methods
A randomized controlled study was conducted on 60 postpartum women (0–3 months after vaginal delivery).
Participants were randomly allocated into two groups: an exercise intervention group (n = 30) and a control
group (n = 30). The intervention group received a structured exercise program for 6 weeks, while the control
group received standard postnatal care. Outcome measures included the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI)
and Back Pain Functional Scale (BPFS). Statistical analysis was performed using paired and independent t-
tests, with the level of significance set at p < 0.05.
Results
Both groups demonstrated improvement; however, the exercise group showed a significantly greater
reduction in pain (ODI: 27.11 ± 4.92 to 20.03 ± 4.36) compared to the control group (31.42 ± 3.14 to 24.97
± 3.89). Functional ability improved more in the exercise group (BPFS: 31.42 ± 5.80 to 40.54 ± 6.20) than
in the control group (27.46 ± 3.18 to 33.44 ± 2.38), with statistically significant differences between groups
(p < 0.05).
Conclusion
A structured exercise program is effective in reducing postpartum low back pain and improving functional
ability. Incorporating exercise-based rehabilitation into routine postnatal care may enhance recovery and
overall quality of life in postpartum women.