Diastasis Recti & Postnatal Core
Diastasis recti is a widening of the gap between the abdominal muscles after pregnancy. Many women see it narrow naturally, and physiotherapy focuses on restoring deep core function and load control.
The gap is not the whole story.
Diastasis recti is a widening of the gap between the two halves of the rectus abdominis, the ‘six-pack’ muscle, caused by pregnancy stretching the connective tissue along the midline. Some separation is a normal response to pregnancy, and many women see it narrow over the first weeks and months.
What matters most is how well the core functions and controls load, rather than gap width alone. Signs include a ridge or doming along the belly when sitting up, a soft midline, low-back pain, pelvic heaviness or a weak core feeling.
Physiotherapy assesses the tissue and how well the deep core, diaphragm and pelvic floor work together, then builds breathing, deep core activation and progressive full-body strengthening, including clinical pilates. Surgery is only considered for severe cases with a hernia or persistent symptoms.
The root causes we look for.
Recognise any of these?
How we'll actually treat it.
The disciplines we'll combine.
Every programme braids two or three of our core services. Here's the typical pairing for this condition.
Treatment that actually holds.
A well-functioning core matters more than a closed gap, and structured, progressive work is what builds it.
Your questions, answered.
Still unsure? Our clinicians answer the questions patients ask most. You can always call the HSR Layout clinic for a straight answer first.
Ask us directly
Let's get this handled.
Book a 60-minute assessment with one of our clinicians. You'll leave with a clear diagnosis, a written programme, and a realistic timeline.
Book assessment- → Full movement assessment
- → Diagnosis & root-cause analysis
- → Written programme with milestones
- → Cost & timeline upfront
- → Same-day hands-on treatment if appropriate