Diastasis recti, or as commonly known, abdominal muscle separation, occurs in some 50% of women through pregnancy.
As the uterus expands with the growing foetus, the connective tissue (called linea alba) holding the two rectus abdominis muscles, gradually stretches out. When the pressure from within exceeds the elastic limit of the linea alba, the gap between the two sides increases. This stretch of connective tissue is mediated by pregnancy hormones such as relaxin and oestrogen.
The first two pictures show our examination of diastasis recti, clinically measured in finger widths. While most women’s abdominal muscles gradually return towards prior status, certain exercises (not sit-ups) and support garments can facilitate the recovery process.
Below is an example of us using diagnostic ultrasound imaging to assess the extent of abdominal muscle separation. It is also used help mothers visualise correct breathing and muscle recruiting patterns to facilitate and draw the abdominal muscles towards the midline during postnatal recovery.
We use various tools such as a Pilates reformer or pressure biofeedback to help patients feel for and practice correct abdominal and core muscle activation during the rehabilitation training.
When you activate the abdominal muscles (especially transversus abdominis) in an ideal pattern, the skin will appear puckered up as below.
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