Diastasis Recti: How Physical Therapy Can Help New Moms Heal

What Is Diastasis Recti?

Diastasis recti (DR) is a common postpartum condition where the two halves of the rectus abdominis (your “six-pack” muscles) separate along the midline due to excessive pressure on the abdominal wall. This condition occurs as the belly expands during pregnancy to accommodate a growing baby, and for some women, the muscles don’t naturally come back together after childbirth.

Signs & Symptoms of Diastasis Recti

Many new moms are unaware they have diastasis recti because it doesn’t always cause immediate pain. However, some common symptoms include:

• A visible bulge or “doming” along the midline of the abdomen when sitting up or lifting the head

• Core weakness, making it difficult to carry heavy objects or get out of bed

• Lower back pain due to reduced core stability

• Poor posture and pelvic floor dysfunction

• Bloating or a “still pregnant” belly appearance months after delivery

How Physical Therapy Can Help Heal Diastasis Recti

A preferred women’s health physical therapy clinic, like Klein Physical Therapy, specializes in postpartum recovery and can help restore core strength and function. Healing diastasis recti isn’t just about doing core exercises—it’s about how you engage your core. Proper loading to the abdominal wall is essential for healing, but if an exercise is too difficult, improper loading can occur, making symptoms worse. That’s why working with a physical therapist ensures safe, effective core activation for recovery.

Here’s how:

1. Targeted Core Exercises (Beyond Kegels!)

Not all abdominal exercises are safe for healing diastasis recti - traditional crunches or sit-ups can worsen the separation. A physical therapist will design a personalized exercise program that strengthens the deep core muscles, including:

• Transverse abdominis activation to support core stability

• Diaphragmatic breathing to re-engage deep abdominal muscles

• Gentle core engagement to promote muscle reconnection

2. Postural Training & Body Mechanics

Poor posture and improper movement patterns (like the way you lift your baby or stand while holding them) can put extra strain on weakened abdominal muscles. A PT will teach you safe movement strategies to support healing and prevent further damage.

3. Manual Therapy & Soft Tissue Work

Gentle hands-on techniques such as myofascial release, visceral manipulation, and joint mobilization can help improve muscle function and reduce tension around the abdominal area and pelvic floor.  

4. Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation

Diastasis recti is often linked to pelvic floor dysfunction, leading to issues like urinary incontinence or prolapse. A physical therapist can assess both your core and pelvic floor, ensuring they work together for full-body stability.

5. Functional Strength Training for Mom Life

Physical therapy focuses on real-life movement patterns to help you regain strength for daily activities—whether it’s picking up your toddler, pushing a stroller, or returning to exercise.

When to Seek Help

If you’re 6+ weeks postpartum and still experiencing a persistent abdominal gap, weakness, or pain, it’s time to seek expert guidance. At Klein Physical Therapy in Denver, Colorado, we offer compassionate, hands-on care to help you heal, feel stronger, and regain confidence in your body.

You don’t have to “just live with it.” Healing is possible! 

Ready to start your recovery? Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and take the first step toward feeling like yourself again!