What You Need to Know About Diastasis Recti: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery
Are you familiar with the term “diastasis recti”?
Several people may not be familiar with this condition, but it’s more common than you might think!
What is it?
The separation the rectus abdominis muscles is known as diastasis recti (diastasis rectus abdominis or abdominal diastasis). This is very common during and after pregnancy. The rectus abdominis is a muscle that runs vertically across the front of your stomach.
It’s commonly referred to as a person’s “six-pack abs.” The linea alba, a sheath of tissue that runs along the middle, divides it into left and right sides. The abdominals are stretched when your uterus swells during pregnancy, and the linea alba thins and pulls apart. As it is pushed outward, this band of tissue expands.
Causes of diastasis recti
Diastasis recti, also known as abdominal separation, can occur for various reasons.
One common cause is pregnancy. As the baby grows in the womb, the abdominal muscles stretch to accommodate the expanding uterus. This stretching can separate the connective tissue between the rectus abdominis muscles.
However, pregnancy is not the only risk factor for diastasis recti. Obesity or excess weight can put added pressure on the abdominal muscles and contribute to their separation.
Diastasis Recti Symptoms
Diastasis recti symptoms can vary from person to person, but there are some common signs to watch out for. During the postpartum period, the following are common diastasis recti symptoms:
- A visible “pooch” or bulge that protrudes just above or below the belly button.
- Hip, lower back, or pelvic pain.
- Softness or a jelly-like sensation around the abdominal button.
- Constipation.
- Difficulties with lifting objects, walking, or performing daily duties.
- When you sneeze or cough, urine leaks.
- Abdominal swelling and distension
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Measuring the Gap:
- The separation is usually measured in finger widths. A gap of more than two finger-widths (about 3 centimeters) may be considered diastasis recti.
Imaging Studies:
- In some cases, medical imaging studies such as ultrasound may be used to assess the extent of diastasis recti and to rule out other abdominal issues.
Avoiding Aggravating Movements for Diastasis Recti
When managing diastasis recti, it’s crucial to be cautious of specific movements that can exacerbate the condition. Here’s a list of activities to avoid:
- Crunches or Sit-ups: Increased strain on abdominal muscles may exacerbate diastasis recti.
- Planks or Push-ups (unmodified): Undue pressure on the midsection can hinder healing; opt for modified versions with proper abdominal support.
- Some Yoga Poses (e.g., Downward Dog, Boat Pose): Certain positions may inadvertently cause abdominal bulging; skip poses that compromise healing.
- Certain Pilates Moves (e.g., Double Leg Lifts, Scissors): Some Pilates exercises can strain abdominal muscles; choose modifications prioritizing core safety.
- Exercises Inducing Abdominal Bulging, Coning, or Doming: Pay attention to your body’s response; modify or avoid movements that could cause further damage.
Treatment and Recovery Time After Diastasis Recti Surgery:
- Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises properly taught by expert Physiotherapists can strengthen abdominal muscles and promote proper body mechanics.
- Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation: Specialized exercises enhance pelvic floor strength and address associated issues.
- Bracing and Support: Abdominal binders or braces provide external support for the abdominal wall.
- Nutritional Support: Adequate protein intake supports tissue repair and overall health.
- Surgical Intervention: When the prior options are not enough, there is a place for a surgery repair of separated muscles, with recovery varying based on the extent of the procedure.
Which surgical option are they?
As in other conditions, there are several surgical techniques. Choosing the most appropriate for you is paramount. Options:
- Conventional abdominoplasty (AKA Tummy Tuck): indicated when there is a clear excess of fatty tissue and skin in the area below the belly bottom. It is quite aggressive, completely removes or relocates the belly button and, doesn’t matter how good the surgeon is, leaves long scar
- Mini-Tummy Tuck: indicated when the diastasis only affects the area inferior to the belly-button
- Keyhole Abdominoplasty (AKA REPA): minimally invasive, with only 3 incisions of 1 cm, it successfully treat long and wide diastasis and can treat at the same time small to medium umbilical hernias. It does not remove any skin or fatty tissue
Recovery Time After Diastasis Recti Surgery:
The recovery period following diastasis recti surgery is highly individualized, influenced by the surgical procedure’s extent and each patient’s unique healing capacity.
In the early postoperative period, emphasis is placed on a cautious approach involving limited activity and careful monitoring to ensure a smooth recovery process.
As patients progress, the resumption of regular activities is approached gradually, under the surgeon’s recommendations.
Regular follow-up care is essential during this phase, allowing healthcare professionals to assess healing progress, address any concerns, and provide necessary adjustments to the recovery plan.
Consult Dr. Daniel for diastasis recti
Remember, if you are experiencing symptoms of diastasis recti, it is always best to consult with a medical professional. Dr. Daniel Serralta and his team specialize in diagnosing and treating diastasis recti.
They provide personalized care and guidance to help you on your journey toward recovery.
