Diastasis recti is a widening of the linea alba, the connective tissue running between the two bellies of the rectus abdominis muscle.
It is a normal adaptation in pregnancy, but if the tissue does not recover its tension afterwards, the abdominal wall stops supporting the trunk properly. That is what lies behind a belly that “will not go down”, back pain, and often pelvic floor problems as well.
Therapy starts with an assessment of the abdominal wall: the width and depth of the gap, the tension of the linea alba and the way pressure is managed inside the abdomen. Only then do we choose the exercises — badly chosen ones can make the separation worse.
Therapy
- Assessment of the abdominal wall
- Rebuilding tension in the linea alba
- Restoring the function of the abdominal muscles
- Correct breathing — taking the load off the abdominal wall
- Postural correction
- Scar mobilisation where a caesarean scar is present
- Home exercise programme