Diastasis Recti / Abdominal Separation

At Vitalis Physiotherapy, our specialised treatment for Diastasis Recti aims to:

Diastasis recti, or abdominal separation, is the separation of the two rectus abdominis muscles during pregnancy from being stretched.

What Is The Diastasis Recti?

Diastasis recti is where the rectus abdominis muscles become stretched and separate during pregnancy, usually starting in the second half of pregnancy. The rectus abdominis muscles run from your chest to your pelvis, down the middle of your belly. Abdominal sepsration is caused by the pressure of your baby and the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. It is a common condition affecting approximately 30-68% of women postpartum.

What Are The Causes?

  • » Pressure on the muscles of your growing baby weakening the muscles
  • » Hormone changes

What Are The Symptoms?

  • » A visible bulge that protrudes just above or below the belly button
  • » Coning or doming when you contract your ab muscles
  • » Difficulty lifting objects, walking or performing everyday tasks
  • » Feeling weak in your abdominals

Treatment For Diastasis Recti

  • » Compression for 0-3 months postpartum
  • » Core exercises
  • » Postural training
  • » Stretching
  • » Taping
  • » Patient education
  • » Tailored exercise program

Your physiotherapist may also recommend a brace or compression garments for those in the early stages of rehabilitation.

What Can I do At Home?

Recommendations in the early postpartum period (0-3 months) included:

  • » Avoid exercises that concentrically engage the superficial abdominals i.e. sit-ups
  • » Avoid high impact exercises
  • » Avoid exercises in which continence mechanism is not maintained

How to book an appointment?

If you think you are suffering from this condition, or you’re looking for a ‘physio near me’, all you need to do is just give us a call on 0410 559 856 and request an initial appointment. Please let our friendly reception staff know the background and severity of your condition.

You can visit our FAQs for more information about appointments at Vitalis Physiotherapy.

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Sinnamon Park Village

3/58 Oldfield Road, Sinnamon Park Qld 4073

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