What is Diastasis Recti?
Diastasis Recti is a gap between the rectus abdominis (six-pack) muscles. As the abdomen grows during pregnancy, it stretches the connective tissue and the rectus abdominal muscles. The muscles have not torn apart! The trunk and abdominal muscles have a role in posture, stability, and movement and when they aren’t functioning properly, then this can lead to poor posture and even low back pain.
What causes it?
The connective tissue between the muscles is weakened and softened from pregnancy hormones and the physical stretching when making room for baby. Diastasis Recti can occur from 14 weeks gestation and increases until delivery. Risk factors for Diastasis Recti include maternal age, babies with large birth weight, multiples or multiple pregnancies in a short period.
Assessment
Diastasis Recti can be measured by ‘fingers width’, which has proven to be reliable.
TIPS
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Watch out for any ‘doming’ (bulging of the abdominal contents through the gap). This is a serious issue if not treated properly with conservative management.
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For the first 6 weeks after birth, you should roll onto your side when getting out of bed, to preserve the connective tissue and abdominals from stretching further.
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Avoid the ‘sit up’ movement for a minimum of 6 weeks, particularly when getting out of bed.
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If you are experiencing lower back pain after pregnancy, it may be due to Diastasis Recti and lack of trunk support. Seek help from a Harmony Ottawa.