Diastasis Recti
Diastasis Recti Treatment in Milton
That gap in your abdominal muscles is not something you have to live with. Diastasis recti responds well to targeted physiotherapy — and the earlier you start, the better the results.
At Milton Pelvic Physiotherapy, we provide specialized core rehabilitation that goes beyond generic exercises. We assess your specific separation, identify contributing factors, and build a progressive treatment plan that restores function and confidence.
Signs you may have diastasis recti
These symptoms are common and treatable. You do not need to diagnose yourself — we will assess you properly at your first visit.
Visible gap or doming
A noticeable ridge or bulge along the midline of your abdomen, especially when sitting up or straining.
Core weakness
Difficulty engaging your core muscles during everyday tasks like lifting your child, carrying groceries, or getting out of bed.
Lower back pain
Persistent low back pain that does not respond to general stretching or strengthening, often linked to poor load transfer through the core.
Pelvic floor symptoms
Leakage, heaviness, or pressure. Diastasis recti and pelvic floor dysfunction frequently occur together.
Feeling disconnected from your core
A sense that your abdominal muscles are not working or that your midsection feels hollow or unsupported.
How we treat diastasis recti
Thorough assessment
We measure the width and depth of the separation, assess connective tissue tension, evaluate your breathing patterns, and check pelvic floor function. This gives us a complete picture — not just a finger-width number.
Core retraining
We teach you how to activate your deep core muscles — transversus abdominis, pelvic floor, and diaphragm — in coordination. This is the foundation for closing the gap and restoring function.
Progressive loading
As your tissue heals and your coordination improves, we progressively challenge your core with functional movements. The goal is to get you back to real life — lifting, exercising, and moving without fear or compensation.
Pelvic floor integration
Diastasis recti and pelvic floor dysfunction are closely linked. We address both together to ensure complete recovery and prevent symptoms from returning.
Common questions about diastasis recti
What is diastasis recti?+
Diastasis recti is a separation of the left and right sides of the rectus abdominis (the 'six-pack' muscle) along the linea alba, the connective tissue running down the centre of the abdomen. It commonly develops during pregnancy but can also occur in men and in women who have never been pregnant.
Can diastasis recti heal on its own?+
Some degree of natural recovery occurs in the first few months postpartum. However, for many people the separation does not fully resolve without targeted rehabilitation. The sooner you start, the better the outcomes — but it is never too late to improve.
Will I need surgery?+
The majority of diastasis recti cases respond well to conservative physiotherapy treatment. Surgery is only considered when conservative management has been exhausted and symptoms remain significant. Our goal is to help you avoid surgery through effective, progressive rehabilitation.
How long does treatment take?+
Most patients see meaningful improvement within 6 to 12 weeks of consistent treatment and home exercise. The timeline depends on the severity of the separation, how long it has been present, and your individual healing response.
Can I exercise with diastasis recti?+
Yes, but the right exercises matter. Some movements can worsen the separation, while others help close it. We build a progressive program that gets you back to the activities you love — safely and without fear.
Do you treat diastasis recti in men?+
Yes. While diastasis recti is most commonly associated with pregnancy, it also occurs in men — particularly those with a history of heavy lifting, chronic coughing, or significant weight change. The treatment approach is the same: targeted core rehabilitation.
Your core can get stronger
Diastasis recti is one of the most treatable conditions we see. Book an assessment at our Milton clinic and get a clear plan for closing the gap and rebuilding your strength.
No referral required. Direct billing available.