Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
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Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Diastasis
What is diastasis recti?
A diastasis refers to the separation of body parts that are normally joined. The most common type is diastasis recti, where the connective tissue between the two sides of the rectus abdominis (the "six-pack" muscles) becomes stretched and separates. This condition can lead to weakness in the abdominal wall and other symptoms. Physiotherapy plays a key role in managing diastasis recti, helping to restore core strength and function.
How does diastasis recti occur?
The most common cause of diastasis recti is pregnancy. As the baby grows, the expanding uterus places increased pressure on the abdominal muscles, causing them to stretch and weaken. After childbirth, this may result in a separation of the rectus abdominis muscles, leading to the development of diastasis recti.
What are the symptoms of diastasis recti?
Pain is the primary symptom of diastasis recti, and in more severe cases, you may be able to feel a noticeable gap between the rectus abdominis muscles. Local inflammation and tenderness may also be present, and if there has been bleeding into the tissues, bruising may occur. Other symptoms can include:
- A visible bulge or doming in the midline of the abdomen, especially when straining
- Lower back pain due to reduced core stability
- Poor posture
- Pelvic floor dysfunction or urinary incontinence
- A feeling of weakness or instability in the abdominal region
What should I do if I have diastasis recti?
If you suspect you may have diastasis recti, it is important to seek a physiotherapy assessment as soon as possible. A physiotherapist will be able to confirm the presence and severity of the separation and assess any associated symptoms such as core weakness or postural changes. Based on the findings and your personal goals, they will develop a tailored treatment programme to support your recovery and help restore strength and stability to the abdominal region.
Physiotherapy treatment for diastasis recti.
Physiotherapy for diastasis recti varies between individuals and will depend on your specific needs and goals. Potential treatment may include a tailored exercise programme focused on strengthening the deep abdominal muscles and improving core stability, gentle stretching to address muscular imbalances, cryotherapy (ice) to reduce inflammation, and electrotherapy such as ultrasound to promote tissue healing. Additional treatments may include:
- Postural re-education to reduce strain on the abdominal wall
- Breathing techniques to engage the diaphragm and core muscles effectively
- Pelvic floor muscle training, especially following childbirth
- Guidance on safe movements and activity modification during daily tasks
- Use of supportive taping or abdominal binders, if appropriate
What shouldn’t I do if I have diastasis recti?
Do not ignore your symptoms if you suspect you may have diastasis recti. It is important to avoid placing additional strain on the rectus abdominus muscle, as this may worsen the separation. Activities such as sit-ups, twisting movements, and heavy lifting should be avoided until you are assessed by a physiotherapist and guided through a safe rehabilitation plan.
Could there be any long-term effects from diastasis recti?
Recovery from diastasis recti depends on the extent of the separation. However, with an appropriate physiotherapy programme, optimal healing can be achieved, and the risk of long-term complications significantly reduced.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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