Can diastasis recti repair improve back pain?

Question

I've had 2 children. After my second I had severe lower back spasms. I did physical therapy and saw a minor improvement. In September 2021 I had a hysterectomy and am wondering if the gas to inflate the abdomen had "undone " any progress I'd made. I'm back to experiencing more back spasms and the physical therapy exercises haven't seemed to help. Would surgery to repair the diastasis recti help with the back pain?

Rady Rahban, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your great question!  Diastasis recti can be a debilitating and painful condition for many women. I have worked on many women who suffer from diastasis recti who have had excellent outcomes in terms of DR associated pain.  It is absolutely crucial to seek out and consult with a Board Certified Plastic and Reconstructive surgeon who has extensive experience with severe cases of diastasis recti repair.

I happen to be a DR expert and use a meshless approach.  I make a low incision, and plicate the connective tissue back into the midline using permanent sutures. Additionally, the belly button is recreated, and loose skin is removed.  In my experience, this surgery has been extremely effective in regaining function and alleviating symptoms associated with DR.

I've attached that I hope is informative to you as you embark on your DR journey. If you haven't yet listened to my podcast, Plastic Surgery Uncensored, I highly recommend it as there is a lot of discussion pertaining to DR.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding improving your back pain.

Back pain can be a symptom of having separation of your abdominal muscles.

To be sure, I recommend that you follow up with your medical provider and/or your physical therapist.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Heatherkerley23,
diastasis recti repair will only tighten your abdominal muscles but it probably won't affect your back pain. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Sean Satey, MD, FACS · Answer

Diastasis recti can contribute to back pain. A diastasis recti - or a spread of the midline muscles - may lead to lower back pain as there is a weakening of the core muscles. It is also important to note that back pain is often multifactorial, and undergoing surgery for a diastasis recti repair should be a diagnosis of exclusion. Hope this helps.

Can diastasis recti repair improve back pain?

Answers (4)