Do you know your rectus diastasis from your divarication of the recti? No!

Regardless of your answer, come and look at my new article which looks at the condition known as diastasis recti.

Diastasis recti is an anatomical term describing an acquired condition in which the right and left rectus muscles (think six-pack) have separated. The fascia (or covering) has become stretched, most often due to body habitus or pregnancy. Diastasis recti do not represent an abdominal wall hernia; there is no fascial defect and therefore, no risk of incarceration or strangulation.

Although diastasis recti can occur in both genders and across age groups, it is principally seen in pregnant women. The condition impacts on body aesthetics and may be associated with stomach protrusion, hernia formation, lower back pain and impaired posture.

The article will:

• Provide a definition of diastasis recti.
• Look at other common terms by which it is known, as well as defining some important terms;
• Describe the abdomen, particularly the muscles involved.
• Look at the the causes of diastasis recti, why it is a problem and some of the known complications.
• Who can be affected by the condition.
• List the prevalence and risk factors, as well as highlighting some of the inaccuracies across the studies.
• Discusse the symptoms across the identified populations affected by the condition.
• Describe how the condition is diagnosed and measured.
• Outline some of the conditions which are similar to diastasis recti which the reader should be wary of.
• A comprehensive overview of the treatments available such as physiotherapy, exercise and surgical interventions, as well as providing some general advice.
• Highlight the outlook for people with the condition.

Find the article here: webpage and downloadable PDF.