Diastasis recti is a common condition that affects many women, particularly those who have given birth. It is a separation of the abdominal muscles, which can cause a bulge in the belly and a weakened core. Physical therapy is an effective treatment option for diastasis recti, and in this blog post, we’ll explore why.
First, physical therapy can help you understand the condition and what caused it. A physical therapist can assess your posture, movement patterns, and muscle strength to determine the severity of your diastasis recti. They can also educate you on the correct exercises and movements to avoid that may worsen the condition.
Second, physical therapy can help you strengthen your core muscles. Weak core muscles are one of the primary causes of diastasis recti. A physical therapist can teach you how to engage your deep abdominal muscles, including the transverse abdominis, which can help pull the separated muscles back together. Strengthening these muscles can also improve your posture and reduce your risk of developing other types of injuries.
Third, physical therapy can help you with breathing exercises. Breathing exercises can help you engage your core muscles and support your diaphragm, which can reduce pressure on the abdominal muscles. A physical therapist can teach you diaphragmatic breathing, which can help you improve your breathing patterns and reduce the risk of other respiratory conditions.
Fourth, physical therapy can help you with pelvic floor exercises. The pelvic floor muscles are closely related to the abdominal muscles, and they play a crucial role in supporting the pelvic organs. A physical therapist can teach you how to strengthen these muscles, which can improve your bladder and bowel control, reduce the risk of pelvic organ prolapse, and improve your sexual health.
Finally, physical therapy can help you with overall wellness. A physical therapist can provide you with guidance on healthy habits, including nutrition, sleep, and stress management. These lifestyle factors can all impact your muscle function and recovery, so it’s essential to address them as part of your treatment plan.
In conclusion, physical therapy is a beneficial treatment option for diastasis recti. It can help you understand the condition, strengthen your core muscles, improve your breathing and pelvic floor function, and support your overall wellness.
If you are experiencing postpartum abdominal pain, contact the Respire PT Team today by phone at 703-671-1871 or click here to request an appointment with a Physical Therapist. Let us help you get back to your favorite activities without pain!
Tags: diastasis recti, pt education, Core strength training, regain your movement freedom, choosept, abdominal pain, fallschurchva, ptworks, painfreeliving, Physical Therapy, Respire Physical Therapy, postpartum, physical therapist, pelvic floor
