Yes, physical therapy can help with diastasis recti when it focuses on strengthening the transverse abdominal muscle, which is essential for closing the gap between the rectus abdominis muscles. However, many traditional physical therapy methods may not fully address diastasis recti if they don’t incorporate proper splinting and diastasis-safe exercises. The research and evidence-based Tupler Technique® goes beyond typical physical therapy by emphasizing muscle repositioning through splinting, transverse muscle strengthening, and developing awareness of how to use the transverse correctly in daily activities to avoid further stretching the connective tissue.
Understanding Diastasis Recti
Diastasis recti occurs when the rectus abdominis muscles separate along the midline, weakening the core and affecting posture, stability, and overall strength. It is commonly associated with pregnancy but can also occur in men, athletes, and individuals who place excessive strain on their abdominal muscles.
Common causes of diastasis recti include:
- Pregnancy and postpartum abdominal stretching
- Improper core training exercises, such as crunches and planks
- Obesity or rapid weight gain
- Chronic coughing or heavy lifting with incorrect form
How Physical Therapy Helps with Diastasis Recti
Physical therapy can be beneficial for diastasis recti when it focuses on core rehabilitation, safe movement patterns, and postural corrections. A well-designed physical therapy program for diastasis recti typically includes:
- Strengthening the transverse abdominis, the deepest layer of abdominal muscles
- Teaching proper posture and movement patterns to reduce abdominal strain
- Improving pelvic floor function to support core stability
- Utilizing breathing techniques to engage the core effectively
Limitations of Traditional Physical Therapy for Diastasis Recti
Many traditional physical therapy programs do not include a standardized treatment protocol for diastasis recti because it is not extensively covered in medical, physical therapy, or nursing school curricula. As a result, some physical therapy approaches may be ineffective or even counterproductive.
Common limitations include:
- Failure to incorporate abdominal splinting for muscle repositioning
- Using exercises that increase intra-abdominal pressure, worsening the condition
- Overemphasizing rectus abdominis exercises instead of deep core strengthening
- Lack of proper education on how daily movements affect the healing process
Why the Tupler Technique® is the Best Approach
The Tupler Technique® is a research-based, medically endorsed program that addresses the limitations of traditional physical therapy by incorporating essential components for healing diastasis recti. This technique, developed by Julie Tupler, RN, emphasizes:
- Muscle Repositioning: Wearing a diastasis rehab splint helps hold the abdominal muscles in the correct position for healing.
- Transverse Abdominal Strengthening: Safe, targeted exercises activate the deepest core muscles, promoting gradual closure of the abdominal gap.
- Daily Activity Awareness: Individuals learn to engage their core muscles properly while standing, sitting, and lifting.
To start the Tupler Technique®, check out the Introductory Program.
Finding a Physical Therapist Trained in the Tupler Technique®
Since not all physical therapists are trained to treat diastasis recti effectively, it is essential to seek out professionals who have completed training in the Tupler Technique®. These therapists follow a structured approach that ensures proper muscle engagement, splinting, and rehabilitation.
To find a physical therapist trained in the Tupler Technique®, visit the official list of trained professionals here.
Conclusion
Physical therapy can help with diastasis recti, but not all physical therapy methods are effective. The Tupler Technique® provides a comprehensive, research-backed approach that ensures proper muscle engagement, splinting, and safe movement patterns to support healing. If you are seeking the best way to close diastasis recti and strengthen your core, working with a Tupler-trained professional is highly recommended.
For more information on the Tupler Technique®, watch this informative video and read the research article.
