Diastasis recti is the partial or complete separation of the rectus abdominis, or “six-pack” muscles, which meet at the midline of your stomach. Diastasis recti is very common during and following pregnancy. This is because the uterus stretches the muscles in the abdomen to accommodate your growing baby.

Rectus diastasis is a condition experienced by women during pregnancy.

Diastasis recti can be due to multiple pregnancies, or just one pregnancy, being smaller in stature, but there are numerous reasons. Often seeing your local family physician is great p[lace to geta referral. 

Rectus diastasis is a split down the center of your abdomen. The linea alba that holds the fascia together will split with an overload in the abdomen, ie: your baby growing. This can create numerous issues. When the abdomen does not have that same stability, then that changes the stability of the pelvis and of your lumbar spine. In treating this condition, often seeing a local massage therapist for muscle tension, a local personal trainer for muscle strength and a physiotherapist for release and conditioning is a good option.  

We generally see women with a one-to-two finger split during pregnancy. And that is something to look for while you’re pregnant. Things that can increase the incidence of a diastasis occurring is doing sit-ups, or sitting straight up in bed, and not being cautious to roll over or take care of that midline and abdomen. Physiotherapist

Postpartum women may experience a rectus diastasis if they have had it in their prenatal period. If you have a measurement of two fingers, two-finger width six to eight weeks postpartum and you think you’re experiencing this diastasis that won’t go away, it’s best to visit your care provider or a local physiotherapist in order to assist you in addressing the instability issues and the abdominal wall issues.

Presenter: Tamarah Nerreter, Physiotherapist, Surrey, BC

Now Health Network Local Practitioners: Physiotherapist