Diastasis Recti
Find relief and restore function with our specialized physical therapy.
Symptoms of Diastasis Recti
The symptoms of diastasis recti vary, but some common indicators include:
- Visible abdominal separation of the abdomen
- A noticeable bulge or “doming”, particularly when straining, lifting, or with certain movements
- Lower back pain or discomfort
- Weakness in the core, leading to difficulty with abdominal exercises and poor posture
- Bloating or a feeling of pressure in the abdominal region
- Difficulties postpartum with daily activities
How Diastasis Recti Occurs
Diastasis recti abdominis occurs when the rectus abdominis muscles separate, causing a gap to form along the linea alba (the connective tissue that runs down the middle of your abdomen). This condition most commonly occurs during pregnancy due to the stretching of the abdominal muscles to accommodate the growing uterus, but it can also develop in men and non-pregnant women due to:
- Increased Abdominal Pressure: Activities such as heavy lifting or incorrect exercise techniques can put excessive pressure on the abdominal muscles, leading to diastasis recti.
- Weakened Connective Tissue: The connective tissue between the rectus abdominis muscles can become overstretched and weakened, contributing to abdominal separation.
- Post-Pregnancy Recovery: Many women experience diastasis recti symptoms postpartum, which can affect core strength, posture, and daily activities.
- Other Contributing Factors: Rapid weight changes or conditions that lead to increased pressure in the abdominal cavity can also cause diastasis recti abdominis.
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How Physical Therapy Can Help
At Beyond Basics, we offer diastasis recti treatment through a combination of exercises and manual therapy techniques aimed at healing symptoms related to the separation of the abdominal muscles. Our approach focuses on:
- Strengthening the Rectus Abdominis Muscles: Targeted exercises help strengthen the rectus abdominis and surrounding core muscles, addressing symptoms related to the gap caused by diastasis recti.
- Improving Core Stability: We help you regain proper core strength, which can improve your posture and alleviate back pain.
- Restoring Function: Our treatments help to restore the function of your abdominal muscles and connective tissue, allowing you to resume normal activities and exercise.
- Addressing Postural Issues: We work to correct posture and alignment problems that often accompany diastasis recti.
- Discussing the Psychosocial Components: We provide empowerment, education, and supportive guidance to help you feel reassured and knowledgeable throughout your recovery.
What to Expect During Your Sessions
During Your Initial Appointment
During Your Additional Appointments
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Beyond Basics: We Can Help
At Beyond Basics, we are committed to treating pelvic floor issues with sensitivity to each individual’s needs, regardless of sex, race, identity, age, or orientation – we treat the whole person with a comprehensive, caring biopsychosocial approach.
Since 2003, Beyond Basics has been a place of hope and healing for our patients. We believe skilled and compassionate healing can restore your body’s harmony and balance. Founder, Amy Stein, and co-founder, Corey Hazama are renowned experts and leaders in pelvic floor PT.
The skilled physical therapists at Beyond Basics receive extensive training to qualify them to be the world’s leaders in pelvic floor rehabilitation. All of our therapists have been carefully selected to work at Beyond Basics because they possess the right expertise, kindness, and empathy to allow them to excel at our practice. Our therapists have completed hundreds of additional hours outside of their doctorates both internally and externally through institutes such as Herman and Wallace and the American Physical Therapy Association, to help hone their practice and provide exceptional treatment efficiently and compassionately. In addition to being the world’s first and foremost experts in pelvic floor dysfunction, our individual therapists have cultivated additional skills unique to their own personal interests. Read more about each one of our therapists here LINK TO BIO.
