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What is Diastasis Recti?

Diastasis recti (DR) is a condition that occurs when the middle sections of the rectus abdominis – the wall of muscles that forms the abdominal ‘six pack’ – separates, or “splits”. It is a common condition that affects both men and women of all ages, sizes, and fitness levels. Diastasis recti is not life threatening, but can cause discomfort and result in a decrease in physical strength, which can affect daily living activities and athletic performance.

Symptoms of Diastasis Recti

The primary symptom of diastasis recti is a “pooch” or bulge in the abdomen. The bulge, which can feel a bit like a soft jelly-like layer, may appear when standing up, sitting down, or during physical activity. In more severe cases, some may also experience back pain, abdominal pain, or urinary incontinence.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diastasis recti can be diagnosed through physical examination by a health care provider, or through imaging techniques such as ultrasound. After diagnosis, treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases of DR may be managed with physical therapy, while more severe cases may require surgery to repair the muscles and the connective tissue.

Types of Surgery

The type of surgery used to treat diastasis recti depends on the individual case. Depending on factors like the severity of the DR, the patient’s overall health, and the desired outcome, a variety of surgical procedures may be recommended. Some of the most common surgical procedures used to treat DR include:

• Abdominoplasty: Also known as a “tummy tuck,” this procedure removes excess skin and fat in the abdominal area and tightens the muscles.

• Transverse Rectus Abdominis Muscle (TRAM) Flap Surgery: This procedure involves removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightening the muscles with a graft from another part of the patient’s body, commonly the pelvic area.

• Porcine External Aortic Root Replacement (PEARR) Surgery: This type of surgery involves replacing the patient’s own abdominal muscles with a synthetic material.

• Laparoscopy: Laparoscopy involves the use of very small incisions and specialized tools to make the repair.

Conclusion

Diastasis recti is a common condition that affects both men and women, though it is often underdiagnosed and underappreciated. It is important to be aware of the symptoms of DR, and if you have any concerns, to see your healthcare provider. With early detection and treatment, diastasis recti can be managed to provide pain relief, improve physical strength, and reduce the risk of further complications.