Do you really need to wear a belly binder? Does it help heal Diastasis? When and how do you wear it? If you are caught in indecision and need to have more information for you to decide, then you’ve come to the right page.
This is an update of an article I wrote and published back in 2012. I wanted to republish this article because this is not only still relevant today, seven years after but even more necessary because of persisting misconceptions still circulating even in the medical community.
You may probably be unsure why you would need to put on a belly binder. Having had surgery or childbirth or both in the case of a C-section are the usual explanations for using a belly binder. This is what people commonly know. It is also important to know you need to wait till the C-section scar has healed before wearing the splint. As by approximating the muscles and connective tissue, it will be pulling on the scar and the stitches may come undone. The scar usually heals in about 5 to 6 weeks. Compression however, is not a problem for the C-section scar.
Maybe it seems like putting extra pressure on your belly might even hurt. On the contrary, compression is a common technique used to speed healing, often after surgery or after an injury like a sprained ankle. Compression offers support to the area that is healing. Compression also increases blood flow and reduces swelling, both of which are key components of the healing process.
For the unfamiliar, the concept of “belly binding” might conjure a somewhat uncomfortable image in our heads but it’s quite the opposite. However, it does have its setbacks, which I’ll further elaborate later on.
WHAT DOES BELLY BINDING DO?
First, you need to know its function. The function of most “belly binders” is to simply make the belly smaller with compression. That is, slowly bringing the belly back to the spine. Originally, this is the role of your innermost abdominal muscle - the transverse abdominal muscle, however, most people have never strengthened this muscle so it is difficult for the transverse muscle to perform this action of compression!
WHAT DOESN’T IT DO?
Already convinced? Belly binders do sound like a good enough deal, don’t they?
But wait...
Before you start considering purchasing one for yourself, it is important to note that wearing a belly binder and wanting it to perform the function that your transverse muscle is supposed to do may actually be not good. This might result in making your abdominal muscles continue to remain in a weakened state since your underdeveloped muscles will then simply depend on the belly binder.
While you wear this splint you are required to do the Tupler Technique® exercises to strengthen the transverse abdominal muscle. Doing the exercises will bring blood flow to the connective tissue which will help it heal. The exercises will also strengthen the transverse muscle so it will be strong enough to do its job of compression. Having the transverse muscle be able to be strong enough to perform its job is crucial because to heal the weak connective tissue you have to prevent intra-abdominal force on it. You prevent intra-abdominal force by having the transverse be strong enough to be able to go back towards the spine (compression) when doing activities of daily living as well as during your exercise workout. If the transverse does not go back when you are doing these activities it is still working….. Only now it is working in the wrong direction! It is going forward forcefully on the weak connective tissue and weakening it. So just wearing the Diastasis Rehab Splint® is NOT enough to close your diastasis. You must do all 4 steps of the program. Click here to know more about what program is right for you.
Do You Really Need to Wear a Belly Binder?
If you've recently had surgery or childbirth, or both in the case of a C-section, you may be wondering if you need to wear a belly binder. The answer is not straightforward, but it's important to know that waiting until the C-section scar has healed before wearing the splint is crucial. Compression, however, is not a problem for the C-section scar.
Compression is a common technique used to speed healing after surgery or an injury, like a sprained ankle. It offers support to the area that is healing and increases blood flow, reducing swelling, both of which are key components of the healing process.
The function of most belly binders is to simply make the belly smaller with compression. That is, slowly bringing the belly back to the spine. Originally, this is the role of your innermost abdominal muscle - the transverse abdominal muscle, however, most people have never strengthened this muscle so it is difficult for the transverse muscle to perform this action of compression!
But before you start considering purchasing one for yourself, it's important to note that wearing a belly binder and wanting it to perform the function that your transverse muscle is supposed to do may actually be not good. This might result in making your abdominal muscles continue to remain in a weakened state since your underdeveloped muscles will then simply depend on the belly binder.
The diastasis recti (separation of the outermost abdominal muscles) is a common condition that can occur during pregnancy or after childbirth. This separation can cause a weakened core and a protruding belly. The use of a belly binder can provide temporary support and compression, but it should not be relied upon as a long-term solution.
To truly address diastasis recti and strengthen your core, it is crucial to incorporate exercises that specifically target the transverse abdominal muscle. This will help to bring the separated muscles closer together and improve overall core strength. Consulting with a physical therapist or a certified postpartum fitness expert can provide you with guidance on the most effective exercises to address diastasis recti.
What to Consider Before Wearing a Belly Binder
Before you decide to wear a belly binder, there are several factors you should take into consideration:
- Consult with a healthcare professional: Always consult with your doctor, midwife, or a medical professional before wearing a belly binder, especially after a C-section or any surgery. They can provide guidance on when it's safe to start using one and how long you should wear it for.
- Choose the right size and fit: Ensure that you select the appropriate size and fit for your body. A belly binder that is too tight can cause discomfort and restrict blood flow, while one that is too loose won't provide the support and compression you need.
- Wear it for the recommended duration: Don't overuse the belly binder. Wearing it for longer than the recommended duration may result in weakened abdominal muscles and increased dependence on the binder for support.
- Combine with appropriate exercises: As mentioned earlier, it's essential to perform exercises that target the transverse abdominal muscle to address diastasis recti and improve overall core strength. Relying solely on a belly binder for support is not enough.
Conclusion
While belly binders can provide temporary support and compression after childbirth or surgery, they should not be relied upon as a long-term solution for diastasis recti or core strengthening. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using a belly binder and to incorporate targeted exercises to strengthen the transverse abdominal muscle. With proper guidance and a balanced approach, you can effectively address diastasis recti and enjoy a stronger, healthier core.
