Diastasis recti treatment in Holly Springs, NC at Evolve Physical Therapy focuses on restoring true core function, not just closing the abdominal gap. While commonly associated with pregnancy, diastasis recti is a pressure management and core coordination issue, not simply a cosmetic concern.

We help patients across Holly Springs, Apex, Cary, and Fuquay-Varina rebuild strength, improve stability, and return to activity safely.



Quick Answer: What Is Diastasis Recti?

Diastasis recti is a separation of the abdominal muscles caused by stretching of the connective tissue (linea alba), most commonly during pregnancy. It can lead to core weakness, abdominal bulging, and difficulty generating tension through the trunk.


A few important points matter here:

  • Diastasis recti is not just about how wide the gap is.
  • The quality of the connective tissue and the way the abdominal wall manages pressure are often more important than the measurement alone.
  • A person can have a visible separation and function quite well, while another person with a smaller separation may struggle with weakness, doming, poor pressure control, or back pain.


How Is Diastasis Recti Diagnosed?

Diastasis recti is typically diagnosed through a physical examination where the width and depth of the abdominal separation are assessed. In some cases, ultrasound or imaging may be used to evaluate the integrity of the abdominal wall.


Is Diastasis Recti Just About the Gap?

No. The size of the gap alone does not determine severity. Function, tension, and the ability to generate core stability are more important than the exact width of separation.


Common Symptoms of Diastasis Recti

People with diastasis recti may notice:

  • A visible gap or trench along the midline of the abdomen
  • Doming or coning of the stomach with exercise or getting out of bed
  • A feeling of weakness through the core
  • Difficulty lifting, carrying, or returning to workouts
  • Low back pain or poor trunk support
  • A sense that the abdominal wall feels disconnected or unsupported
  • Trouble generating tension in the core during movement


For some women, appearance is the first thing they notice. For others, the bigger concern is function: feeling weak, unstable, or unable to exercise the way they used to.


Why Diastasis Recti Happens

Diastasis recti develops due to increased pressure placed on the abdominal wall combined with reduced connective tissue support. During pregnancy, hormonal changes and mechanical stress stretch the linea alba, allowing the abdominal muscles to separate.

Contributing factors include:


Why Diastasis Recti Doesn’t Fully Heal on Its Own

While some natural healing occurs postpartum, many individuals continue to experience separation due to poor core coordination, improper exercise progression, or persistent pressure patterns. Without addressing how the core and pelvic floor function together, the condition may not fully resolve.


What Exercises Should You Avoid with Diastasis Recti?

Many people are told to either avoid core exercises completely or jump straight into generic workouts found online. Both approaches can slow recovery or even worsen symptoms.

Diastasis recti is not just about avoiding certain movements, it’s about learning how to properly manage pressure and coordinate your core muscles during movement.

A pelvic floor physical therapist helps you understand:

  • Which exercises are appropriate for your current stage of recovery
  • How to activate your deep core muscles correctly
  • How to prevent excessive strain on the abdominal wall
  • How to progress safely back to higher-level activity



What Most People Get Wrong About Diastasis Recti

There is a lot of misleading advice online. Common misconceptions include:

  • “It is just cosmetic.”
  • “You only need to close the gap.”
  • “Crunches will fix it.”
  • “You should avoid all ab work forever.”


In reality:

  • Function matters more than appearance alone.
  • Rehab should focus on restoring tension, control, and load tolerance.
  • Core training is often part of recovery, but it needs to be progressive and appropriate.
  • The abdominal wall, diaphragm, and pelvic floor all work together. If one part is off, the whole system can struggle.


How Diastasis Recti Affects Daily Life

Persistent abdominal separation can affect much more than exercise. It may make everyday tasks feel harder, including:

  • Core weakness during exercise
  • Lower back discomfort
  • Difficulty lifting or bracing
  • Abdominal bulging or “doming”
  • Reduced confidence in movement


How Physical Therapy Treats Diastasis Recti

Pelvic floor physical therapy is considered a first-line, conservative treatment for diastasis recti because it improves core function, pressure management, and abdominal coordination.

Treatment focuses on:

  • Deep core activation (transverse abdominis)
  • Pelvic floor integration
  • Breathing and pressure control
  • Gradual strengthening progression
  • Movement retraining for daily life and exercise



What Treatment For Diastasis Recti May Include

At Evolve Physical Therapy, treatment may include:

  • Detailed abdominal wall and movement assessment
  • Evaluation of doming, pressure strategy, and trunk control
  • Breathing retraining
  • Deep core activation and progression
  • Pelvic floor coordination work when indicated
  • Functional strengthening
  • Return-to-exercise progression tailored to your goals


Can Physical Therapy Fix Diastasis Recti?

Yes. Physical therapy is the primary non-surgical treatment for diastasis recti and focuses on restoring function, improving core strength, and reducing symptoms. While the gap may not fully close in all cases, most patients see significant improvement in strength and function.


Frequently Asked Questions


Will my diastasis recti fully close?

Not always, and complete closure is not the only goal. Many patients make excellent progress in strength, control, and symptom reduction even if a small separation remains.


Can I exercise with diastasis recti?

Yes, but the right progression matters. Some exercises may be appropriate right away, while others should wait until your core is managing pressure more effectively.


Is diastasis recti causing my back pain?

It can contribute. When the trunk is not generating good support, the back often has to compensate.


Do I need surgery?

Most people should try conservative rehab first. Physical therapy is often very effective for improving functio

Book An Appointment With A Pelvic Floor Specialist

If you’re experiencing diastasis recti, you don’t have to live with it. Schedule a pelvic floor evaluation at Evolve Physical Therapy in Holly Springs, NC and take the first step toward lasting relief and confidence.

Book Your Diastasis Recti Evaluation

All treatment is provided by licensed Doctors of Physical Therapy with specialized training in pelvic health.


Page reviewed by Doctor of Physical Therapy