Diastasis Recti: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of diastasis recti?

Diastasis recti is a condition where the right and left sides of the rectus abdominis (the “six-pack” muscle) separate, often during pregnancy or childbirth. Symptoms of diastasis recti can include:

1. Visible bulge or ridge: A visible bulge or ridge along the midline of the abdomen, especially when straining or contracting the abdominal muscles.
2. Abdominal weakness: Weakness in the abdominal muscles, which can affect posture and stability.
3. Lower back pain: Diastasis recti can contribute to lower back pain, as the weakened abdominal muscles can lead to poor posture and spinal alignment.
4. Pelvic floor issues: Diastasis recti can be associated with pelvic floor dysfunction, including urinary incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse.
5. Digestive issues: Some people with diastasis recti may experience digestive issues such as bloating, constipation, or poor core muscle control.

It’s important to note that not everyone with diastasis recti will experience symptoms, and the severity of the condition can vary. If you suspect you have diastasis recti, especially if you are experiencing symptoms, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider or a physical therapist for proper evaluation and guidance on appropriate exercises and treatments.

What are the causes of diastasis recti?

Diastasis recti is most commonly caused by pregnancy, but it can also occur due to other factors. The main causes of diastasis recti include:

1. Pregnancy: The growing uterus during pregnancy can put pressure on the abdominal muscles, causing them to stretch and separate.
2. Childbirth: The process of giving birth can further weaken the abdominal muscles and contribute to the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles.
3. Excessive intra-abdominal pressure: Activities or conditions that increase intra-abdominal pressure, such as heavy lifting, chronic coughing, or obesity, can contribute to diastasis recti.
4. Improper core muscle activation: Poor posture or improper use of the core muscles can contribute to the development of diastasis recti.
5. Genetics: Some people may be genetically predisposed to developing diastasis recti, as certain factors such as collagen structure can influence muscle elasticity.

It’s important to note that diastasis recti is not solely caused by pregnancy and can occur in men, women, and children. However, it is more commonly seen in pregnant and postpartum women due to the physical changes that occur during pregnancy and childbirth.

What is the treatment for diastasis recti?

Treatment for diastasis recti often involves physical therapy and specific exercises to strengthen the abdominal muscles and improve core stability. Some common treatment approaches include:

1. Pelvic floor exercises: Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can help improve overall core stability and support the abdominal muscles.
2. Transverse abdominis exercises: The transverse abdominis is a deep abdominal muscle that plays a key role in core stability. Exercises that target this muscle can help improve abdominal strength and reduce diastasis recti.
3. Pelvic tilts: Pelvic tilts can help strengthen the abdominal muscles and improve posture.
4. Abdominal bracing: Learning to brace the abdominal muscles correctly can help improve core stability and support the abdominal muscles.
5. Postural correction: Improving posture can help reduce strain on the abdominal muscles and improve core stability.
6. Avoiding straining: Activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure, such as heavy lifting or straining during bowel movements, should be avoided or minimized.
7. Support garments: Some people find that wearing a supportive abdominal binder or splint can help support the abdominal muscles and improve posture.

In some cases, surgery may be recommended to repair severe or persistent diastasis recti. However, surgery is usually considered only after conservative treatments have been tried and if the diastasis recti is causing significant symptoms or functional limitations. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider or a physical therapist for proper evaluation and guidance on the most appropriate treatment for diastasis recti.