What is Diastasis Recti?
Diastasis recti is when the abdominal muscles stretch apart down the middle of the stomach.
This happens because the connective tissue between the muscles becomes stretched, most commonly during pregnancy, but it can also occur with weight changes or heavy straining.
It can cause a bulge in the tummy, feelings of core weakness, or back discomfort.
It is not a muscle tear, and in most cases it improves with the right exercises and guidance rather than surgery.
How Physiotherapy Helps Diastasis Recti
Physiotherapy is one of the most effective ways to manage diastasis recti. Rather than focusing only on “closing the gap,” physiotherapy aims to restore strength, control, and confidence in your abdominal muscles.
A physiotherapist will help you:
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Improve core muscle function
By strengthening the deep abdominal muscles, your core can better support your spine and abdomen. -
Learn correct breathing and movement patterns
This reduces unnecessary pressure on the abdominal wall during daily activities, exercise, and lifting. -
Reduce abdominal bulging or doming
Better muscle coordination helps the abdomen work more efficiently and look more supported. -
Return safely to exercise and daily activities
Rehab is progressed gradually to rebuild strength without making the separation worse.
Diastasis recti is not a muscle tear, and surgery is rarely needed. With the right physiotherapy programme, most people experience improved strength, function, and comfort, even if a small separation remains.