Abdominal Separation (Diastasis Recti)
Osteopathic Assessment & Rehabilitation Support —
Melbourne & Caroline Springs
Abdominal separation, commonly called diastasis recti, is a natural change that can occur during pregnancy and after childbirth. It involves stretching of the connective tissue between the abdominal muscles.
At Live Well Health Centre, our osteopaths provide assessment and evidence-informed management to support abdominal muscle function and movement control. Care focuses on helping the trunk and pelvis work efficiently during daily activities, exercise, and postnatal
recovery.
Management is individualised and based on clinical assessment and functional goals.
What is abdominal separation (diastasis recti)?
Diastasis recti refers to a widening of the connective tissue (linea alba) between the rectus abdominis muscles (“six-pack” muscles).
It most commonly develops during pregnancy as the abdomen expands to accommodate the growing baby. It can also occur in:
- the postnatal period
- people who experience repeated abdominal pressure
- individuals returning to activity after pregnancy
Abdominal separation is a structural and functional change, not an injury.
Common features
People with diastasis recti may notice:
- visible widening or doming along the midline of the abdomen
- reduced abdominal strength or support
- difficulty generating trunk stability
- abdominal bulging during effort
- lower back or pelvic discomfort with activity
- reduced confidence with exercise or lifting
Not everyone experiences symptoms. The degree of separation does not always relate directly to function.
Why abdominal separation occurs
Abdominal separation is influenced by:
- stretching of connective tissue during pregnancy
- changes in abdominal pressure regulation
- altered muscle coordination
- reduced trunk support during movement
- recovery stage after childbirth
After birth, the connective tissue may gradually adapt over time. Functional recovery often depends on how the abdominal muscles and surrounding structures work together.
When is assessment helpful?
Assessment may be useful if you:
- are pregnant or postnatal and concerned about abdominal changes
- notice abdominal doming during movement
- have difficulty returning to exercise
- experience reduced trunk support or control
- have ongoing back or pelvic discomfort
- want guidance on safe rehabilitation
Osteopathic assessment of diastasis recti
Assessment is tailored to your stage of pregnancy or postnatal recovery. It may include:
- discussion of pregnancy and birth history
- observation of abdominal wall function during movement
- breathing and pressure control assessment
- evaluation of trunk and pelvic muscle coordination
- functional movement assessment (lifting, bending, exercise tasks)
Where appropriate, collaboration or referral to your GP, maternal health provider, or women’s health physiotherapist may be recommended.
How osteopathy may support management of abdominal separation
Osteopathic management focuses on supporting functional recovery and movement confidence. This may include:
- improving coordination of abdominal and pelvic muscles
- supporting efficient breathing and pressure control
- guiding gradual return to physical activity
- helping optimise posture and load management
- providing education on movement strategies for daily tasks
Management is individualised and progresses based on functional capacity.
Approaches that may be used
Depending on assessment findings, management may include:
- motor control and coordination exercises
- breathing and pressure management training
- progressive strengthening strategies
- clinical Pilates-based rehabilitation (where appropriate)
- posture and movement retraining
- gentle joint and soft tissue techniques where indicated
Programs are adapted to pregnancy or postnatal stage and individual goals.
Evidence and clinical guidelines
Abdominal wall recovery and postnatal rehabilitation are widely recognised in clinical guidelines. Conservative management typically focuses on education, exercise, and functional rehabilitation.
Key evidence sources:
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
Postnatal care up to 8 weeks after birth
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
Physical activity and exercise during pregnancy and postpartum
World Health Organization (WHO)
WHO recommendations on maternal and newborn care for a positive postnatal experience
British Journal of Sports Medicine — Postnatal return to exercise consensus
These sources support structured rehabilitation, gradual exercise progression, and individualised postnatal recovery planning.
What to expect from rehabilitation
Recovery timelines vary. Progress may depend on:
- stage of pregnancy or postnatal recovery
- connective tissue adaptation
- activity demands
- consistency of rehabilitation strategies
Management focuses on improving function and movement confidence over time.
Self-management strategies your osteopath may discuss
- breathing and pressure management
- posture and lifting strategies
- gradual strengthening progression
- activity modification
- safe return-to-exercise planning
- daily movement awareness
Consistent practice is important for functional improvement.
When to seek medical review
Seek medical advice if you experience:
- significant abdominal pain
- hernia-like bulging
- persistent pelvic floor symptoms
- concerns about healing after birth or surgery
- uncertainty about exercise safety
Consult your GP or maternity care provider if unsure.
Frequently asked questions
Will abdominal separation close completely?
Recovery varies between individuals. Functional improvement is often a key focus of rehabilitation.
Is exercise safe with diastasis recti?
Appropriately guided exercise is commonly recommended. Individual assessment helps determine suitable progression.
Is abdominal separation only a postnatal condition?
It commonly develops during pregnancy but may be noticed or assessed after birth.
Related conditions
- Postnatal recovery
- Core rehabilitation
- Pelvic floor dysfunction
- Lower back pain
- Pregnancy-related pelvic pain
Book an assessment
If you are concerned about abdominal separation or would like guidance with rehabilitation, our osteopaths can assess your function and discuss appropriate management options.
Book an appointment at Live Well Health Centre — Melbourne & Caroline Springs.
Health information disclaimer
- This information is general education and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Individual assessment is required to determine appropriate care.