What are diastasis recti symptoms is a common question we get as Women’s Health Physical Therapists.

Diastasis recti is a condition that occurs when the rectus abdominis muscles, which are the muscles that run vertically along the front of your abdomen, separate or become abnormally wide.

This separation can lead to a number of symptoms and physical changes.

Common diastasis recti symptoms and signs include:

1. Visible Bulge: One of the most noticeable symptoms is a visible bulge or ridge along the midline of the abdomen, particularly when you engage your abdominal muscles (e.g., when sitting up from a lying position or during certain exercises).
2. Abdominal Weakness: You may experience a feeling of weakness or a lack of core stability in your abdomen.
3. Back Pain: Diastasis recti can contribute to lower back pain and poor posture, as the weakened abdominal muscles may not adequately support the spine.
4. Digestive Issues: Some individuals with diastasis recti may experience digestive problems, such as constipation or bloating, due to reduced abdominal support.
5. Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: Weakness in the abdominal muscles can also impact the pelvic floor muscles, potentially leading to issues like urinary incontinence or pelvic pain.
6. Hernias: In some cases, diastasis recti can lead to hernias, where abdominal organs protrude through the weakened abdominal wall.
7. Altered Appearance: Apart from the visible bulge, you may notice changes in the appearance of your abdomen, such as a domed or conical shape when you engage your abdominal muscles.

Conclusion

It’s important to note that not everyone with diastasis recti will experience all of these symptoms, and the severity of symptoms can vary widely from person to person. Some individuals may have a mild separation with few or no noticeable symptoms, while others may experience more pronounced symptoms that affect their daily life.

If you suspect you have diastasis recti or are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to consult with a pelvic floor physical therapist for an evaluation and personalized guidance on managing and potentially treating the condition.

Treatment options for diastasis recti

Pelvic floor physical therapy is valuable for those who experience symptoms of diastasis recti. It can significantly improve quality of life and help individuals regain control and confidence in their core health.

At PhysioFit of NC, we have the expert team in pelvic floor physical therapy to help you to the fullest.

We provide a comprehensive treatment approach through our Women’s Health Program.  This includes manual therapy and exercises to improve conditions related to the pelvic floor muscles.

Don’t hesitate to contact us today so we can help you!