Diastasis Recti

What it is, how it manifests, and can physical therapy can help.

Diastasis Recti (DR) is a common condition in which the abdominal muscles in your core separate.

Abdominal wall separation is especially common among pregnant people. Pregnancy naturally causes a thinning and widening of the linea alba (line of connective tissue down the mid-line of the abdomen) to allow the belly to grow and expand, but should resolve within a few months of giving birth. However, studies show that up to 45% and 32% of women still have separation at 6 months and 12 months postpartum, respectively, which can greatly impact core strength and function.

Diastasis Recti is not exclusive to women or pregnancy but can also be caused in all genders by improper exercise or weight gain putting stress on the abdominal muscles.

Fortunately, Diastasis Recti is treatable through physical therapy. Pelvic health physical therapy can look at the body as a system to see where there are dysfunctions that may be contributing to the ongoing diastasis and help you recover to full function.

Experiencing
Diastasis Recti
or related symptoms? Pelvic floor physical therapy can help.

Mendwell is a Pelvic Health Physical Therapy clinic serving patients in Portland, Lake Oswego, Beaverton, and Tigard. Our team of specialists are passionate about helping patients improve pelvic function, relieve pain, and get back to feeling their best. Reach out to learn how we can help.

Related Conditions

Other names for this condition

  • Abdominal Wall Separation
  • Diastasis Rectus Abdominis