Downtown office
NY 10004
Monday – Friday
08:00 AM – 07:00 PM
Midtown office
NY 10016
Monday – Friday
08:00 AM – 07:00 PM
Downtown office
Midtown office
274 Madison Ave, Suite 1001,
NY 10016
Monday – Friday
08:00 AM – 07:00 PM
19%
lower odds of premature death for adults with a primary care provider
67B
would be the annual amount US save If everyone saw a primary care provider
33%
adult with a primary care saves, over people who only see specialists
Diastatis Recti
What is Diastasis recti?
Diastasis recti is a common condition in pregnant and postpartum people. It occurs when the rectus abdominis muscles (six-pack ab muscles) separate during pregnancy from being stretched. The separation can make a person’s belly stick out or bulge months or years postpartum. It can be repaired with special exercises that help to close the separation.
Symptoms
Most people don’t notice signs of diastasis recti until they are postpartum. You can have diastasis recti during pregnancy, but it’s hard to distinguish because your abdomen is stretched.Common signs of diastasis recti during the postpartum period are :
- A visible bulge or “pooch” that protrudes just above or below the belly button.
- Softness or jelly-like feeling around your belly button.
- Coning or doming when you contract your ab muscles.
- Difficulty lifting objects, walking or performing everyday tasks.
- Pain during sex
- Pelvic or hip pain.
- Low back pain
- Poor posture.
- Urine leaking when you sneeze or cough.
- Constipation.
- Feeling weak in your abdominals.
Risk factors :
Several factors can increase your risk for developing diastasis recti :- Having multiple pregnancies (especially back-to-back).
- Being over 35 years old.
- Having multiples (such as twins or triplets).
- Having a heavy or big baby.
- Being extremely petite.
- Vaginal delivery. Pushing can increase abdominal pressure.
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Treatment
Physical Therapy:
Physical therapy is a very effective way to manage the symptoms of Diastatis Recti. It can improve your strength and stamina so you can return to normal activities. Your physical therapist may help you with:Postural training :
Your physical therapist will show you ways to do daily activities, such as lifting and carrying a baby or other objects. These methods will help to strengthen and reduce pressure on your stomach muscles.
Exercise training :
A physical therapist can teach you the right type and intensity of exercises for your condition and goals. They can help you progress through them as you get stronger.
Bracing :
Taping or braces for the abdominal region can provide support for some women with DRA during pregnancy. Physical therapists treating pregnant women can make sure a support brace or garment is right for use during pregnancy.
Electrical muscle stimulation :
Electrical muscle stimulation gently activates the rectus abdominis muscle. It has been shown to improve function and reduce the amount of separation. Our Physical Therapist in New York works with each patient to develop programs to meet their specific needs.