Diastasis Recti Abdominis-diagnosis, Risk Factors, Effect on Musculoskeletal Function, Framework for Treatment and Implications for the Pelvic Floor

Abstract

Background:Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA) can occur during pregnancy and postpartum. It is defined as an increase of the inter-recti distance (IRD) beyond normal values. The diagnosis of DRA is inconsistent within the literature and varies depending on measurement instrument and activity during measurement (rest versus active curl-up). DRA is characterized by the stretching of linea alba (LA) and contributes to a protrusion of the anterior abdominal wall due to increased laxity in the myofascial system that supports abdominal viscera. DRA has been postulated to affect lumbopelvic support and function due to laxity of the LA and altered angle of muscle insertion, but recent studies have not confirmed this. Risk factors for the development of DRA have been investigated in pregnancy to 12-months postpartum.Objective:Rehabilitation for DRA has been traditionally focused on reducing the IRD, but recent research has proposed that a sole focus on closing the DRA is suboptimal.Results:It is important alongside the rehabilitation of the abdominal wall that there is the consideration of the pelvic floor (PF). In healthy individuals, with the activation of the transversus abdominis, there is a sub-maximal co-contraction of the PF muscles. This co-contraction can be lost or altered in women with urinary incontinence. An increase in intra-abdominal pressure without simultaneous co-contraction of the PF may cause caudal displacement of the PF.Conclusion:The aim of this review is to bring the reader up to date on the evidence on DRA and to propose a rehabilitation framework for the whole abdominal wall in DRA with consideration of the impact on the PF.