Diastasis Rectus Abdominus (DRA)

DRA refers to separation of the midline connective tissue between your "six pack" muscle, the rectus abdominus. This can happen for a variety of reasons - two of the most common reasons are increased abdominal weight or pregnancy.

Pregnancy is the reason most people seek care. Almost all women get some stretching of this tissue by the end of pregnancy, but in most cases it resolves spontaneously by 6-8 weeks postpartum. When it does not, there can be problems with regards to your ability to use your abdomen functionally. This can be associated with pain or altered movement strategies and muscle recruitment strategies.

Our therapists are trained in the management of DRA. We look at your abdominal wall as a part of your whole body and in the context of activities that have meaning for you. Often, with the right exercise program you can recover full function and be able to control your abdominal wall well again.