Understanding and Testing Diastasis Recti
What it is and How to Test for it
Are you curious about diastasis recti? You're not alone. Let's delve into what this condition entails and how you can test for it. In this blog post, we'll cover the basics of diastasis recti and guide you through a simple self-test to assess its presence.
Diastasis Recti Unveiled
Diastasis recti refers to the abnormal separation of the linea alba, the midline of your stomach. Although commonly associated with pregnancy, it can affect anyone, including men. While it often occurs during pregnancy, it may persist even if you've never had children. But how do you know if you have it? Let's find out.
Testing for Diastasis Recti: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Position Yourself: Lie down on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor, creating a comfortable setup.
2. Belly Button Exploration: Using one of your fingers, gently touch and feel your belly button area. Get acquainted with the texture and sensation of the tissue.
3. Palpate the Midline: Keeping one finger close to your belly button, slowly lift your head to observe your tummy. Lightly move your finger up and down along the midline of your stomach.
4. Detect the Divot: Pay attention to any unusual sensations as you palpate. If you notice a spot where the tissue seems to sink or have a subtle dip, you might encounter a diastasis recti separation.
5. Assess the Degree: Gradually move your finger toward your sternum and downwards toward your pubic bone. Gauge the depth of the separation by how many fingers you can fit into the divot. This can give you an idea of the degree of diastasis recti you may have.
Remember, the sensation might vary, and you could experience a more pronounced gap on one side than the other.
What's Next?
If you suspect diastasis recti after performing this self-test, stay tuned for our upcoming video tutorial. In the next installment, we'll explore strategies to address diastasis recti, especially if you're dealing with associated discomfort, back pain, digestion issues, or difficulty engaging your core muscles.
Stay informed and empowered on your wellness journey. Keep an eye out for our follow-up video tutorial to learn how to manage and potentially close the gap caused by diastasis recti. Until then, take care!