Diastasis Recti Complications

Diastasis recti is a separation of the left and right sides of the rectus abdominis muscles. It is most common in pregnant women and infants. In pregnant women, the abdominal muscles may continue to separate after giving birth, leading to diastasis recti complications.

Hernia

According to Medline Plus Medical Encyclopedia, the most serious diastasis recti complication is an umbilical hernia. An umbilical hernia occurs when the separation of the abdominal muscles allows part of the intestines to protrude.

Back Pain

Because your abdominal muscles support your spine, diastasis recti may cause chronic pain in your low back. Low back pain may lead to poor posture.

Newborns

According to Dynamic Neuromuscular Rehabilitation, diastasis recti in infants may appear to heal, but can lead to muscular dysfunction and breathing problems later in life.

Prevention

You can prevent diastasis recti complications by gradually strengthening your abdominal muscles, thereby closing the gap, preventing hernia and back pain. Choose gentle exercises, and do not do regular sit-ups.

Treatment

Medline Plus states that a painful umbilical hernia may be treated surgically. A gentle exercise program such as yoga or water aerobics can help relieve low back pain caused by diastasis recti.

References

• Pregnancy-Info.net; Separated Muscles
• Dynamic Neuromuscular Rehabilitation; Diastasis recti
• National Institutes of Health; MedLine Plus; Medical Encylopedia; Diastasis recti

Resources

• New Horizons Physical Therapy
• Mayo Clinic; Umbilical Hernia

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