We chose this topic today because of a few posts we made about Diastasis Recti a while ago. I noticed that some people did not know what the condition is and why its repair is necessary for wellness. This condition is medical, not cosmetic and affects many people.
Diastasis Recti is the partial or complete separation of the rectus abdominis, or “six-pack” muscles, which meet at the midline of your stomach.
The Bad News
Diastasis Recti is very common during and following pregnancy. This is because the uterus stretches the muscles in the abdomen to accommodate your growing baby. We have many patients that come in with a big belly believing that this is just fat, when it is simply not the case.
This condition isn’t just limited to the pregnant, though. It can affect anyone, including newborn babies and men. In some cases, it can result from lifting heavy weights incorrectly or performing excessive or unsafe abdominal exercises. Diastasis should not be confused with an Umbilical Hernia which is a weak spot or hole in the abdominal wall that could allow the contents inside the abdomen to protrude. So how do you know if you should suspect a Diastasis in your belly?
- Do you have back pain?
- Do you have an extended belly?
- Do you work out hard and the belly is still there?
If you answer yes to any of these questions, you should do the bulge test.
So What’s The Bulge Test?
Lay on the floor and attempt a sit up with knees bent. Look at your belly. Do you see a bulge in your midline abs? If the answer is yes, that is your Diastasis.
At Last Some Good News
Diastasis Recti can be prevented by wearing a waist trainer after pregnancy for 6-8 weeks. Other tips? Don’t train abs immediately after pregnancy. Be careful with how you lift things using proper posture and always lift with knees bent.
These suggestions do help but if you already have a Diastasis, it is a matter of too little too late to help you. In that case, the only long term fix would be to have surgery to close the gap between the muscles. Many people elect to do this procedure with a Tummy Tuck or Hernia Repair because you have to go in through the abdomen and they prefer to recover from one surgery, not two.
The recovery time can be about 2-3 weeks long and is dependent on the person. Everyone’s body is different and as you can imagine, some people handle being uncomfortable better than others. This discomfort gets better over time once you do your Lymphatic Drainage massages – a topic we will speak about in the next blog – and follow your doctor’s advice. We usually recommend people do 6-10 massages after the procedure to help with your recovery.
We encourage all our Fabulistas to take care of themselves inside and out. Eat healthy, live healthy and have a positive vibe wherever you go. No matter what people say, you need to always look out for the best version of you. Whether you got lipo money or not, always Be Fabulous!
