Hi. I am a 64 year old male recently diagnosed with diastasis recti, which appears to be at the3 to 4 inch range. The physical therapist some exercises to do and the surgeon advised to "lose some weight". Now my question is, could the diastasis be a result of constipation (pushing has been severe at times) , considering I've had the problem since I was a child, and not necessarily due to obesity? Will I be able to repair this by exercise and weight loss, or is this just false hope?
1 photo
Answers (5)
From board-certified doctors and trusted medical professionals
VOTED MOST HELPFUL
December 18, 2014
Answer: Diastasis Recti can only be corrected with surgery
Knowing the anatomy of the abdominal wall is essential to understanding diastasis recti. There are 4 muscles that make up the abdominal wall. These muscles are connected to the skeleton primarily at the ribs and pelvis. Muscles have some intrinsic stability but for the most...
I generally recommend no heavy lifting or strenuous activity (no exercise) for 4 to 6 weeks after tummy tuck. After six weeks, I encourage patients to slowly resume exercise routines *gradually*. Remember, during the six week postoperative period - you will be deconditioned. I do prepare...
All muscles are encased in a tough silvery white dense tissue layer called the fascia. The fascia condenses at the very ends forming ligaments and tendons with which our muscles attach to bones. When the abdomen becomes greatly distended it stretches out and splits the muscles. The...
