What is diastasis recti adominus (DRA)?
Diastasis Recti Abdominus (DRA) is stretching of the tissue between the two sides of the abdominal muscles (called the linea alba). Diastasis recti is 100% normal at the end of pregnancy and has to happen in order to make room for the growing baby. Typically diastasis recti can cause a bulge or doming appearance at the middle of the abdomen. Weakness in the core as a result of diastasis recti can cause discomfort in the back, or symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, however the diastasis itself isn't usually painful
By about 6 weeks postpartum, we expect the thinning and stretching of the linea alba to begin to improve, and diastasis recti to be significantly reduced. If significant laxity is still present at 6 weeks postpartum, you may benefit from training with a pelvic floor therapist.
By about 6 weeks postpartum, we expect the thinning and stretching of the linea alba to begin to improve, and diastasis recti to be significantly reduced. If significant laxity is still present at 6 weeks postpartum, you may benefit from training with a pelvic floor therapist.
How can pelvic floor PT help with managing symptoms of diastasis recti?Pelvic floor therapy aims to address the weaknesses within the pelvic floor, core and hip muscles. The goal of pelvic floor therapy is to address core muscle weakness and retrain your body to activate the deepest muscles of your abdominal wall.
Pelvic floor therapists provide hand-on manual treatments, individualized exercises and discuss lifestyle modifications in order to reduce abdominal pressure that is contributing to your diastasis recti. The key with DRA is to address all of the factors that are contributing to it, including core weakness, posture and joint mobility restrictions. |
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"I could not have felt more cared for and validated. She was thorough and knowledgeable in answering my questions about supporting my core and returning to exercise after having my baby!"
What is the Vivid difference?
Diastasis recti is our specialty! Our therapists combine orthopedic and pelvic floor treatment techniques to assess and treat the root cause to your diastasis. Sometimes the root cause of the diastasis could be a problem at your back, hips, core or even your feet.
At Vivid Women’s Health your Doctor of Physical Therapy will:
At Vivid Women’s Health your Doctor of Physical Therapy will:
- Find the root cause of your symptoms.
- Address how your pelvic floor is functioning with your whole body; it isn't just Kegels.
- Treat your for one-hour with hands on treatments.
- Be with you one-on-one for the entire session; no aides or techs.
- Treat you with compassion in a private, stress free environment.