The Tummy Team specializes in functional core rehabilitation, specifically treating the very common yet very under-diagnosed condition called Diastasis Recti. Since there is so much conflicting and confusing information out there about diastasis recti, we focus on not only treating the condition but being a resource to those who are seeking more information. Below are the 5 most common questions we get about diastasis recti and the answers.
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What is diastasis recti?
Diastasis Recti is excessive stretching of the connective tissue the runs down the center of the abdominal wall causing a separation between the right and left side of the core muscles.
What causes diastasis recti?
Diastasis Recti is caused by repetitive forceful forward pressure on the linea alba (the connective tissue that runs down the center of the abdominal wall). This pressure can be from pregnancy, chronic constipation, traditional abdominal exercises like crunches, sit-ups, even planks, and habitual bracing or bearing down.
Why have I never heard of this condition?
Diastasis Recti is a very common but underdiagnosed condition. This is mostly because there has traditionally not been a great treatment plan for the condition. That is no longer the case. Functional Core Rehabilitation (the specialty of The Tummy Team) can effectively treat and close a diastasis and help eliminate the common pain and instability symptoms associated.
How do I know if I have a diastasis?
Sometimes you can effectively check yourself for a diastasis and sometimes it takes more experienced palpation skills. The Tummy Team has several self-check videos and other resources to help you assess your tummy for separation along the midline of your abdominals. However, if you have low back pain, mid back pain, pelvic instability, sacroiliac joint instability, pubic bone pain, collapsed posture, digestive issues, pelvic floor issues, a protruding tummy and/or an odd looking belly button, you likely are suffering from functional core weakness and possibly diastasis recti. Sometimes a diastasis is obvious and other times it is not. However, the functional core weakness is not something to simply live with. (Not sure if your symptoms require you to need rehab? Take this assessment.)
Can diastasis recti be healed?
Absolutely! Understanding the cause and contributing factors to diastasis recti as well as how the body is innately designed to heal are key to the effective treatment of diastasis recti. We first work to help you minimize and eliminate the movement patterns that create the excessive stretching of the connective tissue and the habitual pushing out on the abdominal wall. Then we rebuild the internal corset muscle of your core while balancing out your upper body, lower body and torso compensation patterns. The Tummy Team has worked with thousands of women and men to effectively heal even the most severe diastasis recti
Do you have a question about diastasis recti we didn’t answer here? Submit it in the comments and we’ll answer it for you. But don’t forget to check out all the new resources on our website.
The Tummy Team is a highly specialized physical therapy clinic in Southwest Washington state but we also have designed a series of online programs to help clients worldwide get the information they need to heal their diastasis. Explore the programs below by clicking the images or check us out at TheTummyTeam.com for more information on how we can help you.
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I am male, 85 years old. I now realise going back 12 years diastasis recti has developed from incorrect exercises, to its present state where my stomach protrudes all the time. Additionally my waist has also gained some 2 inches of fat. I do not consider them “love handles”.
I had a left bowel resection at 78 & right hip replacement at 79. from those ages my core abdomen became increasing weak with the prominent protrusion. Unfortunately, whilst I faithfully do specific exercises since the hip replacement, I am unable to motivate myself with the diastasis exercises. I have learned considerably from your blog & explanations, so which is the best course you offer to solve my problem. As a tax accountant here in Canada I am unable to start for a while.
Hi Ronald! Thank you for your interest! Considering your diastasis and core weakness, I highly recommend taking our Core Foundations course. This will help you close your diastasis and improve other pains you may be experiencing. Please check it out in our online store and contact us through email if you have any more questions or concerns!
Does the use of hand weights 7lb and 10lb effect the central core to increase the size of the Diastasis Recti. I have used them on and off over the past 7 years, sideways up and down and biceps up and down to shoulders.
In this regard I have a noticeable increase in the separation, the bulge and stomach protrusion. Should I continue?
While hand weights can be effective for your arm muscles, if you are in incorrect alignment and your core is not elongated and engaged, this could have a negative effect on your diastasis. If you are noticing your gap widening, I suggest taking a break from weights and consider our core rehab program, Core Foundations.