Understanding Rectus Abdominis Diastasis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

• February 28, 2024
• By Fernando Amato

Causes, symptoms, and effective treatments for rectus abdominis diastasis, a common postpartum challenge.

Rectus abdominis diastasis is a condition that, although frequently associated with the postpartum period, can affect both women and men, resulting from the separation of the mid-abdominal muscles. Therefore, this phenomenon can lead to a series of physical discomforts and aesthetic changes, significantly impacting the quality of life of affected individuals.

• 🤰 Causes and Risk Factors of Diastasis
• 📏 How to Identify Rectus Abdominis Diastasis
• 💪 Treatments and Recovery
• 🏋️‍♂️ Prevention and Exercise Tips
• 🤔 Frequently Asked Questions about Diastasis

What is Rectus Abdominis Diastasis?

Rectus abdominis diastasis occurs when there is an abnormal separation between the two rectus abdominis muscles, located in the front of the abdomen. So, this separation is caused by the stretching of the linea alba, a band of connective tissue that joins these muscles in the center of the abdomen.

Causes and Risk Factors

Key causes include pregnancy, due to increased intra-abdominal pressure, inappropriate physical exercises, obesity, and surgical procedures affecting the abdominal area. Risk factors include multiple pregnancies, multiple births (twins, triplets), and a history of abdominal surgeries.

Visible Symptoms and Sensations

In addition to the characteristic visual appearance, such as a bulge or “mommy tummy”, individuals may experience lower back discomfort, constipation, and difficulties performing activities that require abdominal strength.

Diagnosis and Evaluation

Diagnosis is often clinical, performed through physical examination. Thus, in some cases, imaging tests, such as ultrasound, may be used to assess the extent of the separation.

Available Treatments for Rectus Abdominis Diastasis

Treatment varies according to the severity of the diastasis and can range from specific exercises for muscle strengthening to surgical interventions, such as abdominoplasty, for more severe cases, or via video and robotic surgery for cases without skin laxity.

Prevention and Recommendations

Prevention involves strengthening the abdominal muscles, with specific exercises for the abdominal musculature, preferably hypopressive exercises. Therefore, it is also recommended to consult a specialist, especially during and after pregnancy, for specific exercise guidance.

Questions and Answers:

1. What causes Rectus Abdominis Diastasis?

Diastasis can be caused by any situation that places excessive pressure on the abdominal wall, including pregnancy, improper weight lifting, and even obesity.

2. How do I know if I have diastasis?

Common signs include a bulge or indentation along the midline of the abdomen, especially when straining. So, a specialist can provide an accurate diagnosis.

3. Do all cases of diastasis require surgery?

No, many cases can be treated with physical therapy exercises focused on strengthening the abdominal muscles.

4. Can diastasis return after treatment?

Yes, especially if precautions such as maintaining adequate strengthening and avoiding activities that increase abdominal pressure are not taken.

5. Does diastasis only affect pregnant women?

No, although it is common in postpartum women, diastasis can also affect men, especially those who are overweight or who perform physical activities that put a lot of strain on the abdomen.

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