As a pelvic floor physical therapist with extensive orthopedic training for the past 11 years, I often see women dealing with DRA a condition characterized by an abdominal separation of the rectus abdominis muscles (aka your 6 pack muscles). This condition can result from pregnancy, obesity, or even improper lifting techniques, leading to both physical and aesthetic concerns. Living with DRA can affect your core strength, posture, and even contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction.

Do you notice a bulge or “coning” in your abdomen, especially when you engage your core or just posturally? Are you experiencing lower back pain or pelvic instability? Do you find it difficult to perform everyday activities, like lifting or bending? If you’re experiencing these symptoms, you’re not alone, and help is available. Or is the aesthetics bothersome to you?

Diastasis recti often occurs during pregnancy when the abdomen muscles stretch to accommodate the growing baby, hence the separation. Other contributing factors may include obesity, genetic predisposition, and certain exercises that increase intra-abdominal pressure. Understanding these causes is crucial for effective treatment and prevention.

1. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy – A specialized approach to uncover the muscle and movement contributors anatomically and biomechanically strengthen the core and pelvic floor.

2. Surgical Intervention – In severe cases, surgery may be considered to repair the abdominal muscles.

3. Lifestyle Modifications – This includes improving posture, avoiding high-pressure activities (for now), learning how to manage your intra-abdominal pressure and adopting a balanced exercise routine.

Pelvic floor therapy addresses the underlying issues associated with diastasis recti by examining and focusing on the connection between how you breathe, ribcage mobility & angle, pelvic floor contribution (or lack of) and core stability. By making sure all the surroundings of the DRA is working properly and efficiently, pelvic floor therapy can help improve function, reduce pain, and enhance overall core strength/stability.

Research from credible sources like PubMed and the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy supports the efficacy of this approach in promoting healing and functional recovery.

At 4th Trimester Physical Therapy, we emphasize a holistic approach that combines pelvic floor therapy WITH orthopedic principles. I truly believe that this is a MUST.

Unlike larger chains where you might be passed off to assistants, you will work one-on-one with a skilled pelvic floor physical therapist throughout your sessions. Our unique focus on women’s health ensures that your individual needs are met with compassion and expertise that require attention to subtle movements.