Everything You Need To Know About Diastasis Recti

You may not even realize that you suffer from this health condition. A large percentage of women who have recently delivered a baby or are currently pregnant suffer from diastasis recti. This is a condition that causes your abdominal walls to pull away from each other. In this article, we will take a look at some of the consequences of suffering from this condition as well as what you can do to restore your abdominal muscles. If you are looking for more tips for leading a healthy life, you should head over to consumeradvisors.org.

What Is Diastasis Recti?

This condition occurs when the two large bands of muscles that run parallel to each other separate instead of meeting in the center of your abdomen. These bands of muscles are joined together by the linea alba. When your linea alba becomes stretched out and thin you will develop diastasis recti.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Diastasis Recti?

Abdominal muscles have a separated appearance and look pulled to the side. Additionally, you may notice a space between the two muscles and the muscles on the inner side of the separation may bulge out slightly. Additionally, individuals who suffer from diastasis recti may have a protruding stomach or belly button.
Pain in the lower and middle back. Additionally, you may experience some pain and discomfort in your hips if your core muscles are not strong enough to maintain a good posture and carry your weight.
An abdominal or an umbilical hernia. The evidence seems to indicate that umbilical hernias are a side effect that occurs as a result of suffering from diastasis recti.
Poor posture. Individuals who struggle to stay upright and cannot keep themselves upright could potentially be suffering from diastasis recti.
A weak pelvic floor, causes incontinence after severe exertion or laughing or sneezing.
Constipation and bloating as a result of not having the muscular strength to control their bowels properly.
Difficulty breathing
Struggling to exercise
Reduced range of motion

Causes and Risk Factors For Diastasis Recti

Pregnancy – The most common cause of diastasis recti is pregnancy. Most women will notice that they begin to develop this condition during the second trimester of their pregnancy. There are several reasons why this condition develops. However, the experts believe that it is probably due to the Relaxin that is secreted in your body to help your joints and ligaments stretch in preparation for the birth of your child.
Obesity and weight gain – A sudden amount of weight gain over a short period of time could put a significant amount of strain on your abdominal wall causing it to stretch and separate.
Age – Being over the age of 35 years old could put you at increased risk for developing diastasis recti.
Abdominal trauma – This includes injuries or surgery in the abdominal area.
Repetitive exercise – Doing a large number of repetitive exercises that focus on your abdominal muscles like crunches or sit-ups could cause this condition.
Steroid Injections – If you receive a large number of steroid injections in your abdominal area you may be more likely to develop diastasis recti.
Natural flexibility – If you are naturally flexible you could cause the connective tissue in your abdominal region to stretch and thin due to repeated use.

Treatments for Diastasis Recti

Physical therapy – There are a variety of exercises that you can engage in to strengthen your core and help to reduce the distance between your abdominal muscles.
Surgery – Although most cases of diastasis recti do not require surgery to fix them it can be effective for a variety of people who suffer from this condition. However, there are a variety of other surgeries often needed by individuals who suffer from this condition. For instance, most people who suffer from diastasis recti will often need surgery to repair hernias. Additionally, cosmetic surgery may be very beneficial for individuals who suffer from diastasis recti. Cosmetic surgery will help to get rid of any unsightly, loose skin.
Splints – There is a large percentage of people who benefit from wearing splints around their abdomen when they suffer from this condition. These splints will help to support your core and put pressure on the muscles.

I am not a healthcare professional so please contact your doctor for further questions.

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