Types of diastasis recti

The separation may be most noticeable above the navel, around the navel, below it, or along more than one area of the midline. Some people notice a ridge or dome when sitting up, coughing, or lifting; others mainly feel weakness, pressure, back discomfort, or difficulty coordinating the abdominal wall and pelvic floor.

Pregnancy, changes in abdominal pressure, and previous abdominal surgery can contribute. The appearance of the gap does not by itself show how well the muscles function, so an assessment considers breathing, movement, strength, pain, and activities that bring on bulging.

Move slowly through bed transfers and lifting, exhale during effort, and avoid repeatedly holding your breath. A physiotherapist can assess the abdominal wall and teach graded deep-core, posture, breathing, and pelvic-floor exercises. Postnatal Physiotherapy may be useful after pregnancy or birth, including when symptoms persist beyond the early recovery period.

Arrange an assessment for ongoing pain, a growing or tender bulge, urinary or bowel changes, pelvic heaviness, or difficulty returning to everyday movement. Seek urgent care for sudden severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or a firm bulge that cannot be gently reduced.

Ask where the separation is located, which movements currently increase pressure, how to exercise safely, and whether another condition could explain pain or a persistent bulge.