Your Safe and Supportive Space for Healing
Pelvic Physical Therapy for Diastasis Recti
Want To Get Rid Of The Separation In Your Abdomen?
Do It With Pelvic Physical Therapy!
Diastasis recti happens when the abdominal muscles separate along the midline, often from added pressure on the core. This can show up during pregnancy, after childbirth, or even from things like quick weight changes or repetitive strain. It can leave you feeling like your core isn’t as strong as it should be, which can make things like posture and everyday movements a challenge.
Pelvic physical therapy is a game-changer for this. It focuses on helping you reconnect with your core, build strength in the right places, and feel more supported in your body. With the right guidance, you can ease the discomfort and get back to doing what you love—feeling strong and confident along the way. Let’s get started.
What is Diastasis Recti Abdominis?
Diastasis recti abdominis (DRA), or diastasis recti, is when there’s more separation than usual between the two halves of your rectus abdominis—the “six-pack” muscle.
It’s worth noting that some separation is completely normal. The two sides of the rectus abdominis are connected by a dense band of connective tissue called the linea alba, which runs from your sternum (breastbone) to your pubic bone. This tissue is strong and resilient, helping transmit forces between the left and right sides of the muscle. A normal separation is typically around one to one-and-a-half finger widths, but this can vary from person to person.
When your abdominal muscles contract—like during a crunch—the linea alba should become taut and firm to transfer force effectively. If it stays soft, it might not be functioning as it should.
DRA is especially common during and after pregnancy. As the baby grows, the abdominal wall stretches, and the linea alba widens to accommodate these changes. Research by Mota et al. (2015) shows that DRA is a normal part of pregnancy, with 100% of individuals in their third trimester experiencing it. Six weeks postpartum, about 60% still have a DRA, and at six months postpartum, it persists in 39% of cases.
While pregnancy is a common cause, DRA can also happen to anyone—regardless of pregnancy history—if there’s excessive strain or an imbalance in the core stability system.
The good news? Pelvic physical therapy is highly effective for addressing diastasis recti. Through tailored exercises and techniques, you can learn to re-engage your core, strengthen the surrounding muscles, and improve how your abdomen manages pressure. With the right approach, you can regain function and feel more confident in your body.
If you’re ready to take the next step, reach out today to see how we can help you on your recovery journey!
How Can A Physical Therapist At Pelvic Model Help With Diastasis Recti?
Diastasis recti happens when the connective tissue along the midline of your abdominal muscles (the fascia) weakens. That’s where physical therapy—especially pelvic physical therapy—comes in. Pelvic PTs specialize in helping you rebuild core strength while reducing strain on the linea alba through tailored core engagement and breathing techniques. Beyond just exercises, we focus on integrating these strategies into your everyday activities and the sports you love, so you can move with strength and ease.
Ready To Get Moving With Ease Again?
Please contact The Pelvic Model today to schedule an appointment. We will get you back up and running as soon as possible!