Dear Patient,
Thank you for sharing your concern. Based on your description, it seems you might be experiencing a condition called diastasis recti, which is common after pregnancy. Diastasis recti occurs when the abdominal muscles separate during pregnancy, leaving a gap that can cause the "
pregnant belly" appearance even after weight loss. Here’s how physiotherapy can help:
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Step 1: Confirm Diagnosis
Before starting exercises, it is essential to confirm if diastasis recti is present. This can be assessed by:
1. Lying on your back with knees bent.
2. Lifting your head slightly off the floor while placing your fingers just above the belly button.
3. Feeling for a gap or a soft bulge.
If unsure, visit a physiotherapist for proper evaluation.
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Physiotherapy Plan for Core Recovery
Phase 1: Core Engagement (Weeks 1–4)
Goals: Strengthen the deep abdominal muscles without straining the rectus abdominis.
Exercises:
1. Diaphragmatic Breathing:
Lie on your back, place your hands on your abdomen, and take deep breaths. Focus on expanding your belly as you inhale and gently pulling it in as you exhale.
Perform 5–10 minutes daily.
2. Pelvic Tilts:
Lie on your back, bend your knees, and flatten your lower back against the floor by tilting your pelvis. Hold for 5 seconds and release.
Repeat 10–15 times, 2–3 times daily.
3. Transverse Abdominis Activation:
Lie on your back and draw your belly button towards your spine without holding your breath. Hold for 5–10 seconds.
Perform 10 repetitions, 2–3 times daily.
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Phase 2: Progressive Strengthening (Weeks 5–8)
Goals: Improve muscle strength and reduce the abdominal gap.
Exercises:
1. Heel Slides:
Lie on your back, engage your core, and slide one heel away from your body. Bring it back and alternate legs.
Perform 10–15 repetitions per leg, 2 times daily.
2. Modified Side Plank:
Lie on your side with knees bent. Lift your hips off the ground and hold for 10 seconds. Gradually increase hold time as tolerated.
Perform 3 repetitions on each side daily.
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Phase 3: Full Functional Recovery (Weeks 9 and Beyond)
Goals: Strengthen core stability and prevent future muscle separation.
Exercises:
1. Bird Dog:
On all fours, engage your core, extend one arm and the opposite leg, and hold for 5–10 seconds.
Perform 10 repetitions per side.
2. Glute Bridge:
Lie on your back, bend your knees, and lift your hips while engaging your core.
Hold for 5 seconds, then lower down. Perform 10–15 repetitions.
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Additional Tips
1. Avoid These Movements:
Crunches, sit-ups, or planks in the early stages, as they can worsen the separation.
Heavy lifting without core support.
2. Postural Awareness:
Maintain a good posture to avoid straining the abdominal muscles.
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When to Consult a Doctor
If there’s persistent swelling, pain, or no improvement after 8–12 weeks of physiotherapy, consult a gynecologist or a physiotherapist specializing in postpartum rehabilitation.
Feel free to book a session at PAL Physiotherapy Clinic, Gurgaon, for personalized guidance.
Warm regards,
Dr. Rajesh Pal
Physiotherapist & Postpartum Recovery Specialist