Notice that your stomach is not as flat as it used to be after having a baby?
It might be due to diastasis recti (abdominal muscle separation).
Now no one’s stomach is flat all the time and someone can be at an ideal weight and still have a stomach that pooches more.
Although diastasis recti is often referred to as a separation of the rectus abdominis muscles, when treating it we need to consider the factors that caused it. It’s not purely an abdominal strength issue! The connective tissue between the muscles is overstretched by increased intra-abdominal pressure, leading to an area of weakness. We need to address how the body regulates intra-abdominal pressure in order to improve this condition. Alignment of the pelvis, ribs, and spine are also factors in regulating this pressure. When the ribs are thrust forward or the pelvis is excessively tilted forward or backward it impacts core strength and the ability to regulate the intra-abdominal pressure.
So, treating diastasis recti involves addressing all these issues to improve how the body functions and reduce areas of weakness. The gap between the muscles may close a lot, a little, or not much. But, it’s what is happening beneath the surface that’s more important. And a flatter belly can still be achieved when the core muscle system is working together
Diastasis recti can result in:
- doming or bulging of the abdomen
- pelvic floor issues such as pelvic organ prolapse or bladder leakage
- low back, pelvic, or hip pain
- feeling of weakness of the abdomen
Wondering if you might have diastasis recti and want to know what to do about it? Click here to schedule a FREE diastasis recti screening
