What is DRA?
· DRA, also known as “split abs,” is a condition where the linea alba, the area between your rectus abdominis, splits. This most often occurs during pregnancy.
What happens if the abs are split?
· Difficulty controlling posture
· Increased risk for injury
· DRA, also known as “split abs,” is a condition where the linea alba, the area between your rectus abdominis, splits. This most often occurs during pregnancy.
What happens if the abs are split?
· Difficulty controlling posture
· Increased risk for injury
How do you test for DRA?
· Lay flat on your back, knees can be straight or bent. Gently lift your head
· Note the degree of separation of the abdominal muscle above and below the belly button
· A palpable midline gap of more than 2.5 cm (1inch) or any visible bulging on exertion is considered as a diastasis.
When can DRA become an issue?
· Not always painful at first
· May present as low back, pelvic or hip pain
· Can contribute and be affected by poor posture
· Difficulty bracing through the midsection or feeling weak in the core
· Pain with sex
· Urinary or bowel problems (incontinence, constipation, etc)
What should you do if you have DRA?
· Postural Training
· Postural control
· Training SPECIFIC core muscles (transverse abdominis, pelvic floor)
· Perform daily activities with active abdominal “bracing”
· Stretching
Seek Physical Therapy to help set up a personalized program to progress your core strengthening!
Both Dr. Lauren and Dr. Sarah are trained in rehabilitation of DRA!
Schedule your appointment today!
· Lay flat on your back, knees can be straight or bent. Gently lift your head
· Note the degree of separation of the abdominal muscle above and below the belly button
· A palpable midline gap of more than 2.5 cm (1inch) or any visible bulging on exertion is considered as a diastasis.
When can DRA become an issue?
· Not always painful at first
· May present as low back, pelvic or hip pain
· Can contribute and be affected by poor posture
· Difficulty bracing through the midsection or feeling weak in the core
· Pain with sex
· Urinary or bowel problems (incontinence, constipation, etc)
What should you do if you have DRA?
· Postural Training
· Postural control
· Training SPECIFIC core muscles (transverse abdominis, pelvic floor)
· Perform daily activities with active abdominal “bracing”
· Stretching
Seek Physical Therapy to help set up a personalized program to progress your core strengthening!
Both Dr. Lauren and Dr. Sarah are trained in rehabilitation of DRA!
Schedule your appointment today!
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