Diastasis Recti The Hidden Postpartum Condition Affecting 1 in 3 SG Mums
Snappy Summary of This Article
- Prevalence: 1 in 3 Singaporean mums suffer from diastasis recti after childbirth.
- Definition: Diastasis recti is the separation of abdominal muscles post-pregnancy.
- Symptoms: Look for bulging belly, back pain, and poor posture.
- Diagnosis: Physical exams or ultrasounds can confirm the condition.
- Treatment: Options include physiotherapy, specialized exercises, and sometimes surgery.
- Prevention: Core-strengthening exercises during pregnancy may reduce risk.
Introduction
Diastasis recti, a common condition affecting pregnant and postpartum women in Singapore, occurs when the abdominal muscles separate due to the stretching of the connective tissue between them. According to reports from various Singapore-based clinics, this condition can be effectively treated through non-invasive methods such as specialized exercises, physiotherapy, and advanced technologies like HIFEM therapy.
Non-Invasive Treatment Options
Non-invasive treatment options for diastasis recti in Singapore include physical therapy, specialized exercises, and advanced technologies. Pelvic floor physical therapy is highly recommended as a first-line treatment, helping to assess, diagnose, and provide targeted exercises for strengthening the deep core muscles. Specific exercises like transverse abdominal contractions, pelvic tilts, and leg marches can effectively activate the deeper core muscles and improve overall core strength. Additionally, advanced technologies such as the FDA-approved BTL Embody device, which uses High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic (HIFEM) technology, are available in Singapore clinics. This technology can induce up to 20,000 supramaximal muscle contractions in a 30-minute session, helping to reduce abdominal muscle separation, improve core strength, and alleviate lower back pain.
Symptoms and Self-Assessment Techniques
Diastasis recti symptoms typically include a visible bulge or “pooch” in the abdominal area, lower back pain, poor posture, and a feeling of weakness in the core muscles. To self-assess for diastasis recti, lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Lift your head slightly off the ground while pressing your fingertips along the midline of your abdomen, feeling for a gap between the abdominal muscles. However, it’s important to note that self-assessment can be challenging and may not always be accurate. For a definitive diagnosis, it’s recommended to consult a women’s health specialist or physiotherapist in Singapore who can perform a thorough examination and provide an accurate assessment of the condition’s severity.
Healing Abdominal Separation Postpartum
Postpartum recovery is a crucial period for addressing diastasis recti. Here are some key tips and exercises recommended by experts for the first 6 weeks after childbirth and beyond to support healing:
| Timeframe | Recommended Actions |
|---|---|
| First 6 weeks | Gentle movements, diaphragmatic breathing, engaging core during daily activities |
| 4-6 weeks postpartum | Start deadbug exercises, avoid crunches and situps |
| Beyond 6 weeks | Gradually increase core exercises, avoid activities that bulge abdomen forward |
| Ongoing | Focus on strengthening transverse abdominis muscle, practice good posture |
It’s important to be patient with the recovery process, as healing can take time. Women should avoid high-impact activities until at least 12 weeks postpartum and ensure they can perform exercises without symptoms like urinary leakage or pelvic pressure. If diastasis recti persists beyond 8 weeks postpartum, seeking professional help from a physiotherapist or specialized clinic is recommended for targeted treatment.
Effective Diastasis Recti Treatments
Several non-invasive treatments are available in Singapore for addressing diastasis recti. Wellaholic offers WellaMuscle, a treatment that uses EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) pulses to induce supramaximal muscle contractions, helping to strengthen and tone abdominal muscles. EMsculpt NEO, another advanced technology, combines HIFEM (High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic) energy with radiofrequency to stimulate intense muscle contractions and reduce fat, showing an average 10.4% reduction in rectus abdominis separation. Core building exercises, recommended by many clinics, focus on strengthening the deep abdominal muscles to improve core stability. Lastly, tummy binding, a traditional method, involves wearing a supportive garment to provide compression and support to the abdominal area during the healing process. While these treatments offer various benefits, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable approach for individual cases of diastasis recti.
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