What does pain from diastasis recti feel like?

Answered by Edward Huber

Pain from diastasis recti can vary from person to person, but there are some common symptoms that many individuals experience. It’s important to note that not everyone with diastasis recti will experience pain, but for those who do, it can be quite uncomfortable.

One of the common feelings associated with diastasis recti is a sense of “flabbiness” in the abdominal muscles. This can be described as a lack of tone or tightness in the midsection. It may feel like the muscles are not providing the same level of support or stability as they used to. This can be particularly noticeable when performing activities that require core strength, such as lifting heavy objects or engaging in exercise.

In addition to the feeling of flabbiness, individuals with diastasis recti may also experience pelvic-floor muscle dysfunction. This can manifest as urinary or bowel problems, such as incontinence, leakage, or constipation. The weakened abdominal muscles can also put pressure on the pelvic floor, leading to discomfort or pain in that area. This can be especially bothersome during activities like coughing, sneezing, or laughing.

Another common symptom of diastasis recti is low back, pelvic, or hip pain. The weakened abdominal muscles can disrupt the balance and alignment of the entire core, leading to strain on the surrounding areas. This can result in chronic pain or discomfort that may be exacerbated by certain movements or positions.

Poor posture is another symptom often associated with diastasis recti. When the abdominal muscles are weakened and unable to provide proper support, it can lead to a forward-leaning posture or a swayback posture. This can put additional strain on the back and hips, contributing to pain and discomfort.

It’s important to note that while these symptoms are commonly associated with diastasis recti, they can also be caused by other conditions or factors. Therefore, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

In my personal experience, I have known several individuals who have struggled with diastasis recti and have described the symptoms mentioned above. One friend, in particular, experienced a constant feeling of flabbiness in her abdomen, which affected her self-confidence and overall well-being. She also had pelvic-floor muscle dysfunction, which caused her to have frequent episodes of urinary leakage. Additionally, she often complained of low back pain, especially after long periods of standing or lifting heavy objects. Through physical therapy and targeted exercises, she was able to alleviate her symptoms and improve her quality of life.

The symptoms of pain from diastasis recti can vary from person to person, but common experiences include feelings of flabbiness in the abdominal muscles, pelvic-floor muscle dysfunction, low back or pelvic or hip pain, and poor posture. It’s important to seek professional guidance for proper diagnosis and treatment.