Diastasis recti is a condition where the abdominal muscles separate along the midline of the abdomen. This separation most commonly develops during pregnancy as the abdominal wall stretches to accommodate the growing baby. Many individuals experience postpartum abdominal separation, which can lead to core weakness, abdominal bulging, pelvic floor dysfunction, and lower back pain.
At Realign Chiro Physio & Rehab, we provide specialized diastasis recti treatment in Langley through pelvic floor physiotherapy and deepcore rehabilitation. Our physiotherapists focus on restoring abdominal stability, strengthening the deep core muscles, and helping patients safely return to normal activities.
Through personalized diastasis recti physiotherapy programs, we address the underlying causes of abdominal separation and guide patients through safe recovery. Our clinic provides personalized physiotherapy in Langley for postpartum recovery, abdominal wall rehabilitation, and core weakness.
If you notice these symptoms, pelvic floor physiotherapy may help.
✔ Abdominal bulging or doming when sitting up
✔ A visible gap between the abdominal muscles
✔ Weak core strength after pregnancy
✔ Difficulty returning to exercise postpartum
✔ Lower back pain related to core instability
✔ Pelvic floor dysfunction such as urinary leakage
Early treatment can significantly improve recovery and prevent long-term core weakness.
Diastasis recti refers to a widening of the connective tissue called the linea alba, which connects the left and right abdominal muscles.
When this connective tissue stretches excessively, the abdominal muscles separate and the core loses stability. This condition most often develops during pregnancy but may also occur due to increased abdominal pressure or improper exercise techniques.
When the abdominal muscles separate, the body can experience:
reduced core strength
poor abdominal wall support
decreased pelvic stability
difficulty stabilizing the spine
Proper rehabilitation focuses on restoring coordination between the abdominal muscles, pelvic floor, and diaphragm.
A visible ridge or bulge may appear along the middle of the abdomen when sitting up or performing abdominal movements.
Many individuals feel weakness in the abdominal muscles when lifting objects, exercising, or performing everyday movements.
Loss of deep core support can increase strain on the lower back and contribute to persistent discomfort.
Because the pelvic floor and abdominal muscles work together, diastasis recti is often associated with pelvic floor symptoms such as urinary leakage or pelvic heaviness.
Several factors contribute to abdominal muscle separation.
During pregnancy the abdominal wall stretches significantly. Hormonal changes also soften connective tissues, increasing the risk of separation.
Activities that create excessive pressure inside the abdomen may worsen separation. This can include improper lifting techniques or high pressure exercises.
The transverse abdominis, pelvic floor, and diaphragm work together to stabilize the core. Weakness in these muscles can contribute to abdominal separation.
A simple self-test may help identify abdominal separation.
Lie on your back with knees bent
Place your fingers just above your belly button
Lift your head slightly off the floor
Feel for a gap between the abdominal muscles
If the separation feels wider than two finger widths, an assessment with a pelvic floor physiotherapist is recommended.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy is considered the most effective conservative treatment for diastasis recti recovery.
Treatment focuses on restoring deep core function and improving coordination between the abdominal wall and pelvic floor.
The first stage of rehabilitation focuses on activating the deep stabilizing muscles of the core.
These include:
transverse abdominis
pelvic floor muscles
diaphragm
multifidus muscles
Proper activation of these muscles improves abdominal support and reduces strain on the connective tissue.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy helps coordinate the pelvic floor muscles with the abdominal muscles.
Treatment may include:
pelvic floor muscle training
breathing coordination exercises
pressure management techniques
neuromuscular retraining
This integrated approach supports long-term recovery.
Many patients develop diastasis recti during pregnancy and require structured postpartum rehabilitation.
Physiotherapy programs often focus on:
safe postpartum exercises
progressive core strengthening
posture correction
return-to-exercise guidance
These programs allow patients to rebuild strength safely. For patients recovering after childbirth, our postpartum pelvic floor physiotherapy approach focuses on safe progression, core retraining, and functional recovery.
A physiotherapist may recommend exercises such as:
diaphragmatic breathing
abdominal bracing
bent knee fallouts
pelvic tilts
side plank progressions
glute strengthening exercises
These exercises strengthen the deep core muscles and improve abdominal wall stability. A guided program through pelvic floor physiotherapy helps patients strengthen the deep core safely without increasing abdominal pressure.
Certain movements may increase abdominal pressure and worsen separation.
These include:
traditional sit-ups
crunches
uncontrolled planks
double leg lifts
high pressure abdominal exercises
A physiotherapist can guide you through safer alternatives.
Recovery varies depending on the severity of the separation and adherence to rehabilitation.
Typical recovery timelines may include:
Mild separation
6–12 weeks
Moderate separation
3–6 months
Severe separation
6–12 months
Consistent physiotherapy and exercise significantly improve recovery outcomes.
Diastasis recti is sometimes confused with a hernia.
The key difference is that diastasis recti involves stretching of connective tissue rather than a tear in the abdominal wall.
A hernia involves a defect in the abdominal wall where tissue may protrude through the opening.
A physiotherapist can help determine whether symptoms are related to abdominal separation or another condition.
Preventative strategies may include:
strengthening the pelvic floor
improving deep core activation
using proper lifting mechanics
performing safe pregnancy exercises
managing intra-abdominal pressure
Early physiotherapy can help reduce the risk of long-term separation.
Our clinic proudly provides diastasis recti treatment in Langley for patients across the community.
We regularly see patients from:
Willoughby
Walnut Grove
Fort Langley
Brookswood
Murrayville
Aldergrove
Langley City
Clayton Heights
Cloverdale
Surrey
We offer direct billing for physiotherapy whenever possible.
Direct billing may be available for:
extended health insurance plans
ICBC injury claims
WorkSafeBC injury claims
Our team can verify your coverage before your appointment.
If you are experiencing abdominal separation, pelvic floor physiotherapy can help restore core strength, reduce abdominal bulging, and improve stability.
Our physiotherapists at Realign Chiro Physio & Rehab provide personalized diastasis recti treatment in Langley, focusing on deep core rehabilitation and safe postpartum recovery.
Book an appointment today and begin your recovery.
