How To Fix Diastasis Recti Years Later NHS: A Comprehensive Guide

Diastasis recti, a condition in which the abdominal muscles separate, is a common issue that affects many individuals, particularly women, during and after pregnancy. While it is often discussed as a postpartum concern, diastasis recti can also occur in individuals who have never been pregnant. If left untreated, diastasis recti can lead to various health problems such as back pain, pelvic floor dysfunction, and poor posture.

If you are one of the many individuals who have been dealing with diastasis recti for years and are wondering if it’s too late to seek treatment, rest assured that addressing this condition is possible no matter how much time has passed. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to fix diastasis recti years later, specifically looking at the solutions offered by the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK.

Contents:

1. Understanding Diastasis Recti

2. Diagnosing Diastasis Recti Years Later

3. The NHS Approach to Diastasis Recti

4. Physical Therapy and Exercise Programs

5. Surgical Options for Diastasis Recti

6. Lifestyle and Home Remedies

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Understanding Diastasis Recti:

Diastasis recti occurs when the connective tissue (linea alba) between your left and right abdominal muscles becomes stretched and weakened, causing them to separate. This separation can create a visible bulge or “pooch” along the midline of your abdomen, most commonly between the belly button and pubic bone.

While pregnancy is a common cause of diastasis recti due to the significant stretching of the abdominal muscles to accommodate the growing fetus, it can also occur in individuals who have never been pregnant. Factors such as genetics, weight fluctuations, and intense abdominal exercises can contribute to the development of diastasis recti.

It’s worth noting that diastasis recti is not solely a cosmetic concern. The separation of the abdominal muscles can lead to functional issues, including weakened core stability, poor posture, and back pain. Additionally, diastasis recti may contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction and urinary incontinence.

2. Diagnosing Diastasis Recti Years Later:

Diagnosing diastasis recti is relatively straightforward and can be done by a healthcare professional. However, if you suspect you have diastasis recti, it’s essential to consult with a specialized healthcare provider to accurately assess your condition.

During the examination, the healthcare provider will assess the width and depth of the separation between the abdominal muscles and evaluate your core strength and stability. They may also ask questions regarding your medical history, any past pregnancies, and lifestyle factors that may contribute to the condition.

It’s worth mentioning that self-diagnosing diastasis recti based on visible symptoms alone may not provide an accurate assessment. Seeking professional guidance is crucial to formulating an effective treatment plan.

3. The NHS Approach to Diastasis Recti:

In the UK, the National Health Service (NHS) is a trusted and accessible healthcare provider offering treatment options for a variety of medical conditions, including diastasis recti. The NHS takes a holistic approach to addressing diastasis recti, focusing on a combination of physical therapy, exercise programs, and, in severe cases, surgical interventions.

When dealing with diastasis recti, the NHS emphasizes the importance of working with a multidisciplinary team, including physiotherapists, specialized nurses, and, if necessary, surgeons. This collaborative approach ensures a comprehensive and tailored treatment plan to suit each individual’s needs.

4. Physical Therapy and Exercise Programs:

Physical therapy plays a vital role in the NHS’s treatment approach for diastasis recti. Physiotherapists specializing in women’s health or pelvic floor rehabilitation are well-equipped to provide appropriate exercises and techniques to help address diastasis recti.

These exercises typically focus on strengthening the deep core muscles, including the transverse abdominis, pelvic floor muscles, and internal and external obliques. A physiotherapist will guide you through specific exercises and movements to gradually engage and strengthen these muscles.

In addition to physiotherapy sessions, the NHS may recommend participating in an exercise program tailored to diastasis recti. These programs often involve a combination of core-strengthening exercises, cardiovascular activities, and posture correction techniques. The NHS may provide access to group exercise classes or refer you to external specialists who offer evidence-based exercise programs.

5. Surgical Options for Diastasis Recti:

In severe cases where non-surgical interventions have proved ineffective, the NHS may consider surgical options to repair diastasis recti. Abdominoplasty, often referred to as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure that can repair and strengthen the abdominal muscles.

During an abdominoplasty, excess fat and skin are removed, and the separated abdominal muscles are sutured back together. It’s important to note that surgical intervention is typically considered a last resort and is only recommended when conservative treatments have failed to provide satisfactory results.

6. Lifestyle and Home Remedies:

While professional intervention is essential for effectively addressing diastasis recti, there are also lifestyle and home remedies that can support the healing process. These include:

A. Maintaining Good Posture:

Poor posture can exacerbate the symptoms of diastasis recti and hinder the healing process. Engaging in activities that promote good posture, such as pilates or yoga, can help maintain alignment and reduce strain on the abdominal muscles.

B. Avoiding Straining Movements:

Avoiding heavy lifting and movements that put excessive strain on the abdominal muscles is crucial. Engaging in activities that require proper body mechanics and avoiding any exercises that cause pain or discomfort are key to protecting and supporting the healing process.

C. Wearing A Supportive Belly Band:

Specialized belly bands, designed specifically for diastasis recti, can provide support and compression to the abdominal muscles, promoting their healing and minimizing the separation. These bands can be particularly beneficial during exercise or activities that put strain on the core muscles.

D. Maintaining A Healthy Weight:

Being overweight or obese can increase the strain on the abdominal muscles, making it more challenging for them to heal. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can support the healing process and overall well-being.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q1: Is it possible to fix diastasis recti years after pregnancy?

A1: Absolutely! Diastasis recti can be effectively treated years after pregnancy. Seeking professional guidance and following a comprehensive treatment plan, such as those offered by the NHS, can help improve the condition.

Q2: How long does it take to fix diastasis recti?

A2: The length of time required to fix diastasis recti can vary depending on the severity of the condition and individual factors. With consistent effort and adherence to a treatment plan, noticeable improvements can typically be seen within a few months.

Q3: Can exercise alone fix diastasis recti?

A3: Exercise alone may not be sufficient to fully resolve diastasis recti, particularly in severe cases. A comprehensive treatment approach, including physical therapy, exercise programs, and possibly surgical intervention, may be necessary to achieve optimal results.

Q4: Can diastasis recti reoccur after it has been treated?

A4: While it is possible for diastasis recti to reoccur, maintaining good posture, engaging in regular exercise, and implementing proper body mechanics can significantly reduce the likelihood of recurrence. Continued self-care is essential to prevent future separation of the abdominal muscles.

Closing Thoughts:

If you have been living with diastasis recti for years, it’s never too late to seek treatment. The NHS offers a comprehensive approach to addressing diastasis recti, focusing on physical therapy, exercise programs, and, when necessary, surgical options. By working with healthcare professionals, incorporating lifestyle and home remedies, and practicing consistency and patience, it is possible to improve the condition and regain strength in your abdominal muscles.

Remember, diastasis recti is a common issue affecting many individuals, but with the right treatment plan and support, you can begin your journey towards healing and recovery.