What should you know about diastasis recti examination?

A clinician may ask about pregnancy, abdominal surgery, pain, pressure, breathing, bowel function, and changes noticed when lifting or sitting up. You may lie on your back with your knees bent while the clinician observes the abdominal wall during gentle movement. They may feel along the midline from the breastbone toward the navel and lower abdomen, noting whether the tissue feels firm or yielding and how the muscles respond when you tighten them. The examination also considers posture, breathing, pelvic-floor symptoms, and functional control. A visible ridge or hollow can prompt assessment, but it does not by itself establish the diagnosis.

Bring a short description of your symptoms and the activities that trigger them. Wear clothing that allows your abdomen to be examined comfortably. Follow the movement plan you are given, which may focus on breathing, coordinated abdominal activation, posture, and gradual return to loading. Avoid repeatedly checking the gap or practising forceful sit-ups if they cause doming, pain, or pressure. Postnatal Physiotherapy can help tailor rehabilitation to your examination findings.

Arrange an assessment if abdominal bulging, weakness, back discomfort, or pelvic pressure is affecting daily activities or exercise. Seek prompt medical care for sudden severe abdominal pain, vomiting, a tender bulge that does not settle, faintness, fever, or difficulty passing stool or urine. These symptoms may need evaluation for a problem beyond muscle separation.

Ask: What did you find on examination? Are my symptoms consistent with diastasis recti or another condition? Which movements should I modify for now? How will we track strength and function? Would physiotherapy be appropriate for my goals?