Abdominal diastasis: how to identify and which treatments are indicated

Abdominal diastasis affects about 50% of women after childbirth, but it can also affect those who have never had children and even men. We spoke with intensive physical therapist Karina Villar (Crefito 270628-F), who clarified doubts and guided how to identify diastasis and what treatments are available to improve the problem. Follow the article!

What is abdominal diastasis?

The physical therapist explains that “abdominal diastasis is the removal of the rectus abdominis muscle that occurs with the rupture of the linea alba. The problem is more common in women, because, during pregnancy, the weight and uterus dimensions increase and lead to a stretching of the muscles, which can reach up to 10 cm of distance.” In addition, hormonal factors in pregnancy also contribute to muscle relaxation.

“Women who have never had children and men can also have diastasis recti. Often, due to factors such as obesity, sedentary lifestyle, postural problems and even in people who usually do a lot of physical effort”, adds Karina.

How do I know if I have abdominal diastasis?

Being attentive to symptoms is essential, because the sooner the diastasis is confirmed, the faster the patient will have results with the indicated treatments. Check out the main symptoms:

• The area above or below the belly button may feel very soft after giving birth;
• Lump in the abdomen when the abdominal muscles are tense;
• Lump in the abdomen when lifting weights, coughing or sneezing;
• Pain in the lower back, buttocks and thighs.

To diagnose diastasis, it is important to carry out an evaluation with a specialized physical therapist. With tests and an ultrasound exam, the professional will be able to confirm and indicate the best treatment.

Consequences of diastasis

Abdominal diastasis can have long-term consequences and impair quality of life. Among the most common problems are pain in the lower back, trapezius and cervical and thighs. There may also be leakage of urine when coughing or carrying very heavy objects and difficulty in performing movements.

There are cases in which diastasis can cause the emergence of an epigastric umbilical hernia, which is a kind of hole above the navel that causes the exit of fatty tissues or even part of the intestine. The treatment is done by surgery, in which the tissues are reintroduced into the abdominal cavity.

Treatments for abdominal diastasis

There are treatments that bring excellent results and can considerably reduce or eliminate the problem altogether. Depending on the severity, it is possible to see results in the first two months. Check out the methods recommended by the physical therapist:

Physiotherapy

In cases of up to 3 cm of distension, spontaneous muscle return may occur, requiring physical therapy to control possible acute pain. With physical therapy, resistance and muscle strength work can also be performed using FES (Functional Electrical Stimulation), a transcutaneous neuromuscular stimulator that promotes muscle contraction and strengthens the rectus abdominis.

authentic pilates

Authentic Pilates is an activity of intense action of the muscles that are part of the Power House (pelvic floor and abdominal muscles). The practice strengthens the rectus abdominis muscles and can reduce distances of less than 5 cm in a period of 2 to 3 months. It is important to do the exercises under the supervision of a specialized professional, because, if performed poorly, they can worsen or lead to the appearance of a hernia.

Surgery

Surgery is indicated in cases where other methods have not shown satisfactory results. “The procedure is very simple and, normally, the surgery is done by laparoscopy, the doctor makes small cuts in the region to insert and sew the muscles. The surgeon uses a special thread that does not deteriorate or break”, explains the physical therapist.

It is estimated that about 32% of women remain with abdominal diastasis after childbirth. The problem goes beyond aesthetics and has consequences that can harm the quality of life.

How to prevent abdominal diastasis

• Strengthening the transverse and rectus abdominis muscle: Strengthening these muscles is key to stabilizing the lower back. In addition to preventing diastasis, it also prevents postpartum low back pain, muscle injuries, discs and the emergence of intestinal hernias.
• Global postural reeducation (RPG): this method of physiotherapy seeks to balance the muscular forces that make up the body. The purpose of GPR is to develop the ability to move normal joints and correct posture by traction, stretching and breathing.
• Tupler Technique: It is a technique developed to bring the abdominal muscles together and improve the loosening of the connective tissue. The program consists of four fundamentals: specific exercises for the abdomen, increased body awareness, use of a specific abdominal band, and habit changes that worsen or develop diastasis.
• Pilates: the method is very suitable for pregnant women, as they are light exercises associated with breathing that help in physical and mental conditioning. In addition to improving breathing capacity, it also corrects posture and, above all, strengthens the abdominal region and pelvic floor.

It is extremely important to look for a physiotherapist specializing in obstetrics to evaluate and determine which prevention program is for each case.

Videos on abdominal diastasis to learn more about it

We separate videos with more information and great tips to prevent and treat the problem. Check out:

How to identify abdominal diastasis

In this video, you can find precise tips on how to identify diastasis and important information to solve the problem. It’s worth watching!

Surgery to close the diastasis

Plastic surgeon Flávio Quinalha talks about the surgery to close the diastasis and comments on whether exercises are really capable of solving the problem. Watch the video!

Exercises to close abdominal diastasis

We know the importance of having the follow-up of a professional to perform the exercises. But, in this video, you will follow some exercises that help to close the diastasis, even after a long postpartum period.

One of the best treatments for diastasis is still prevention. Therefore, look for a physical therapist who specializes in the subject, who can help you prevent the problem and improve your well-being. Enjoy and learn more about pelvic pain and see the indicated treatments.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.