[In Search of LAB] "Development of a Rehabilitation Exercise System to Aid Recovery After Childbirth"

Professor Lee Wanhui's Research Team at Sahmyook University
An Integrated Solution for Overall Recovery and Metabolic Health
Research Published in SCI(E)-Level International Journal

Sahmyook University has developed a rehabilitation exercise program to aid recovery after childbirth.

From the left, Professor Lee Wanhui, CEO Kim Woosung of Momsbodycare, Researcher Byun Naeun of Sahmyook University Applied Physical Therapy Research Institute, Professor Shin Janghun of Kyungbok University Department of Physical Therapy, and Education Team Leader Kim Sojung of Momsbodycare. Sahmyook University

On August 22, Sahmyook University announced that a research team led by Professor Lee Wanhui from the Department of Physical Therapy has developed a step-by-step postpartum rehabilitation exercise program called the "5R System" in collaboration with Momsbodycare Center, a specialized sports medicine institution for pregnant women. The program was designed to reflect the physical characteristics and recovery process of Korean women.

This research was published in the SCI(E)-level international medical journal "Medical Science Monitor." The first author of the paper is Byun Naeun, a researcher at the Sahmyook University Applied Physical Therapy Research Institute, and the corresponding author is Professor Lee.

The 5R System developed by the research team consists of four stages, aiming for the overall recovery of postpartum women. Each stage focuses on different goals, including structural recovery, posture control, movement restoration, and physical strength improvement.

In the initial stage, the research team utilized a self-developed ultrasound fixation device to activate deep muscles, including the transversus abdominis. While existing postpartum exercise programs have limitations in overall recovery as they mainly focus on localized issues such as diastasis recti, pelvic floor dysfunction, or postpartum depression, the 5R System distinguishes itself by being designed for integrated and stepwise recovery.

The effectiveness of the 5R System was verified through a 12-week clinical trial involving 56 postpartum women. The participants were divided into three groups: the 5R System group, a general aerobic exercise group, and a non-exercise group. The research team measured indicators such as muscle thickness, muscle strength, abdominal fat percentage, and fasting blood glucose at weeks 0, 6, and 12.

The results showed that the group using the 5R System demonstrated superior outcomes in all indicators, including core muscle strengthening, increased muscle strength, reduced body fat, and improved blood glucose levels.

Professor Lee explained, "In Korea, there is still a perception that exercise should be avoided for a long period after childbirth. However, recent international medical research has consistently presented evidence that appropriate exercise from the early postpartum period is effective for recovery. This study is significant in that it offers a scientific, domestically tailored alternative that can support this shift in perception."

A Sahmyook University official stated, "This program has shown excellent results in scientifically restoring weakened core muscles and metabolic functions after childbirth, and it is gaining attention as a new model for postpartum women's health management."