Diastasis Recti: Understanding Abdominal Separation and Recovery

Diastasis recti is a separation of the abdominal muscles, specifically the rectus abdominis muscles, which are the muscles that run vertically down the front of your abdomen. It occurs when the connective tissue (linea alba) between these muscles stretches and becomes thin, causing a gap or a bulge in the midline of the abdomen.

Diastasis recti most commonly occurs during pregnancy due to the expanding uterus and hormonal changes that affect the abdominal muscles.

The most common symptom of diastasis recti is a noticeable bulge or ridge in the middle of the abdomen when you contract your abdominal muscles or perform certain movements. Other possible symptoms may include:

Weak Core Muscles
Diastasis recti can weaken the core muscles, leading to decreased stability and support for the spine and organs.

Back Pain
Weakened abdominal muscles can contribute to increased stress on the lower back, resulting in pain or discomfort.

Digestive Issues
Some individuals with diastasis recti may experience digestive issues, such as bloating or constipation, due to compromised abdominal muscle function.

The good news is that diastasis recti can often be effectively managed and improved with appropriate treatment and exercises.

Here are some recovery options to consider:

Physical Therapy
Working with a physical therapist who specializes in postpartum care can be highly beneficial. They can provide guidance on specific exercises and techniques to strengthen the abdominal muscles and promote proper alignment and posture.

Core Strengthening Exercises
Engaging in targeted exercises that focus on strengthening the deep core muscles, such as the transverse abdominis, can help close the gap and restore abdominal function. These exercises may include pelvic tilts, modified planks, and breathing exercises.

Corrective Posture and Body Mechanics
Practicing proper posture and body mechanics throughout your daily activities can contribute to the healing process. Avoiding movements and positions that strain the abdominal muscles, such as excessive forward bending or heavy lifting, can help prevent further separation.

Supportive Garments
Wearing supportive garments, such as postpartum belly wraps or compression garments, can provide gentle support to the abdominal muscles during the recovery process.

Non-surgical intervention
Using the power of electrical muscle stimulation we can improve the strength of the recti muscles to reduce the gap. Read more about Empower RF treatment at MySkyn Clinic.

Surgical Intervention (In Severe Cases)
In rare cases when conservative measures do not yield desired results, surgical intervention may be considered. A consultation with a healthcare provider experienced in diastasis recti management can provide guidance on surgical options, if necessary.

It’s important to note that each person’s journey with diastasis recti is unique, and recovery timelines may vary.