Diastasis Recti Treatment at Physiocare Physiotherapy & Rehab Centre
Key Takeaways
✓ Diastasis recti involves abdominal muscle separation, commonly after pregnancy or weight changes
✓ Specialized treatments including DNS, Neurac therapy, and myofascial release restore core function
✓ Early intervention prevents chronic back pain, pelvic floor dysfunction, and postural problems
✓ Available across six Ottawa locations with personalized rehabilitation programs
Physiocare's Experience in Action
Updated on July 24, 2026
Written By
Prateeksha Viradiya
Resident Physiotherapist
Specializes in Aquatic Rehab and is a Certified Aquafit Instructor.
Specializes in Aquatic Rehab and is a Certified Aquafit Instructor.
✓ Clinically Reviewed By:
Gunjan Vermani
Director and Registered Physiotherapist
Understanding Diastasis Recti
What Is Diastasis Recti?
Diastasis recti occurs when your rectus abdominis muscles separate along the linea alba, the connective tissue running down your abdomen’s midline. This separation creates a visible gap, often appearing as a bulge or ridge when you engage your core muscles. The condition weakens abdominal wall integrity, reducing your body’s ability to stabilize your spine and pelvis effectively. You might notice difficulty performing everyday movements like lifting, bending, or even standing from a seated position without discomfort.
Relevant Anatomy of Your Core System
Your abdominal wall functions as an integrated stabilization system:
- Rectus Abdominis: The paired vertical muscles creating the “six-pack” appearance, separated by the linea alba
- Linea Alba: The fibrous connective tissue band joining both sides of your rectus abdominis at the midline
- Transverse Abdominis: The deepest core layer wrapping horizontally around your torso like a natural corset
- Internal and External Obliques: Diagonal muscles controlling rotation and side-bending movements
- Pelvic Floor: The muscular hammock supporting your pelvic organs, working in coordination with abdominal muscles
When diastasis recti develops, this coordinated system loses effectiveness, compromising both stability and function throughout your entire core.
Causes and Mechanism of Separation
Diastasis recti develops through several pathways:
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and sustained abdominal stretching weaken connective tissue, particularly during the third trimester
- Rapid weight changes: Significant weight gain or loss stresses the linea alba beyond its elastic capacity
- Improper exercise technique: Performing crunches, sit-ups, or planks with existing weakness can worsen separation
- Chronic increased intra-abdominal pressure: Persistent coughing, constipation, or heavy lifting without proper bracing
- Multiple pregnancies: Repeated stretching reduces tissue resilience and increases separation risk with each pregnancy
The separation occurs when sustained tension exceeds the linea alba’s ability to maintain connection between muscle bellies.
Risk Factors for Abdominal Separation
Certain factors increase your vulnerability to diastasis recti:
- Multiple or closely-spaced pregnancies: Insufficient recovery time between pregnancies prevents complete tissue healing
- Advanced maternal age: Reduced tissue elasticity affects connective tissue integrity during pregnancy
- Large baby or multiples: Greater abdominal distension creates increased separation forces
- Poor core strength: Weak stabilizing muscles fail to protect against excessive intra-abdominal pressure
- Genetic connective tissue factors: Inherited variations in collagen structure affect tissue resilience
- Previous abdominal surgery: Surgical incisions may create weakness points along the abdominal wall
Common Symptoms You Might Experience
Diastasis recti presents with recognizable patterns:
- Visible midline bulge: A ridge or dome-shaped protrusion appearing when you engage your abdominal muscles
- Lower back pain: Compromised core stability forces your back muscles to compensate unsafely
- Pelvic floor dysfunction: Weakness, incontinence, or pelvic pressure due to loss of coordinated support
- Postural changes: Difficulty maintaining upright posture, especially when standing for extended periods
- Digestive discomfort: Bloating or constipation from reduced abdominal muscle support
- Umbilical hernia risk: Weakness around your belly button creating potential for tissue protrusion
Complications If Left Untreated
Ignoring diastasis recti leads to cascading dysfunction. Chronic back pain develops as spinal stabilizers overwork continuously. Pelvic floor problems worsen, affecting bladder control and intimate health. Postural compensation creates shoulder and neck tension. Hernia risk increases significantly. Movement quality deteriorates, limiting daily activities and exercise participation.
Treatment at Physiocare for Diastasis Recti
Comprehensive Treatment Approaches
DNS (Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization) for Diastasis Recti
- Retrains your core stabilization using developmental movement patterns from infancy
- Activates deep stabilizers including transverse abdominis through coordinated breathing and positioning
- Restores proper intra-abdominal pressure management protecting the linea alba during movement
- Integrates core function with full-body movement patterns for functional daily activities
Red Cord Therapy (Neurac) for Diastasis Recti
- Uses suspension equipment creating instability that demands coordinated core activation
- Identifies and corrects weak links in your neuromuscular chain affecting abdominal function
- Progressively challenges stability while protecting healing tissues from excessive strain
- Builds functional strength transferable to real-world movements like lifting and carrying
Myofascial Release for Diastasis Recti
- Addresses fascial restrictions limiting tissue mobility and proper muscle function
- Releases tension in surrounding structures including hip flexors and thoracolumbar fascia
- Improves tissue quality around the linea alba supporting better healing alignment
- Reduces compensatory tension patterns developed from chronic core dysfunction
Visceral Work for Diastasis Recti
- Mobilizes abdominal organs potentially restricted by pregnancy or fascial adhesions
- Improves diaphragmatic breathing essential for proper core activation patterns
- Addresses digestive discomfort often accompanying abdominal separation
- Restores optimal organ position supporting better abdominal wall mechanics
Craniosacral Therapy for Diastasis Recti
- Balances fascial tension throughout your entire body affecting core function
- Addresses compensatory patterns extending beyond your abdominal region
- Supports nervous system regulation improving healing response and tissue quality
- Promotes whole-body integration essential for complete functional recovery
DOT (Deep Oscillation Therapy) for Diastasis Recti
- Creates gentle tissue oscillation enhancing circulation without causing tissue trauma
- Reduces inflammation and swelling supporting optimal healing environment
- Accelerates connective tissue repair through enhanced metabolic activity
- Particularly effective post-pregnancy when tissues remain sensitive and healing
How Physiotherapy Helps Manage Diastasis Recti
Physiotherapy addresses both separation and functional restoration comprehensively. Specialized assessment identifies your specific gap width, depth, and tissue quality. Manual therapy releases restrictions limiting proper muscle activation. Movement retraining restores coordinated core function through progressive exercise. Education empowers you with strategies for safe daily activities and long-term prevention.
Your Step-by-Step Recovery Journey
Assessment
Your physiotherapist measures separation width, tests functional movement patterns, and identifies contributing factors creating personalized treatment baselines.
Personalized Plan
Customized programming addresses your specific separation characteristics, movement goals, and lifestyle demands with appropriate exercise progressions.
Evidence-Based Treatment
Integrated manual therapy, specialized modalities, and progressive therapeutic exercise restore tissue integrity and functional core control.
Recovery & Prevention
Advanced strengthening, return-to-activity training, and ongoing self-management strategies ensure lasting results and prevent recurrence.
Available Treatments By Location
Physiocare Physiotherapy & Rehab Centre - Nepean
- Red Cord Therapy (Neurac)
- Myofascial Release
- DOT (Deep Oscillation Therapy)
Physiocare Physiotherapy & Rehab Centre - Carling
- Myofascial Release
- DOT (Deep Oscillation Therapy)
Physiocare Physiotherapy & Rehab Centre - Westboro
- DNS (Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization)
- Myofascial Release
- Visceral Work
- Craniosacral Therapy
- DOT (Deep Oscillation Therapy)
Physiocare Physiotherapy & Rehab Centre - Kanata
- DNS (Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization)
- Red Cord Therapy (Neurac)
- Myofascial Release
- Visceral Work
- Craniosacral Therapy
- DOT (Deep Oscillation Therapy)
Physiocare Physiotherapy & Rehab Centre - Stittsville
- DNS (Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization)
- Myofascial Release
- DOT (Deep Oscillation Therapy)
Physiocare Physiotherapy & Rehab Centre - Barrhaven
- Myofascial Release
- Visceral Work
- Craniosacral Therapy
Physiocare Physiotherapy & Rehab Centre - South Keys
- Myofascial Release
- DOT (Deep Oscillation Therapy)
Why Choose Physiocare for Diastasis Recti Treatment?
Physiocare stands as Ottawa’s trusted partner for diastasis recti recovery through our specialized postpartum and core rehabilitation expertise. Our therapists hold advanced certifications in DNS, Neurac therapy, and visceral manipulation—specialized skills unavailable at most physio clinics in Ottawa.
We understand the emotional and physical challenges of abdominal separation, creating compassionate, evidence-based treatment plans addressing your unique recovery goals. With six convenient locations across Ottawa, accessing expert care fits seamlessly into your busy family life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Diastasis Recti
Small separations may improve naturally within six months postpartum, but most cases require targeted physiotherapy for complete functional restoration and prevention of complications.
Gentle treatment can begin within weeks postpartum after medical clearance. Earlier intervention typically produces better outcomes and prevents compensatory dysfunction development.
Most cases respond excellently to conservative physiotherapy. Surgery is rarely necessary and typically reserved only for severe separations unresponsive to comprehensive rehabilitation.
Modified exercise under physiotherapy guidance is beneficial and essential. Avoid traditional crunches, sit-ups, and planks until your therapist clears you for progression.
Most patients see significant improvement within eight to twelve weeks of consistent treatment. Complete restoration depends on separation severity and adherence to programming.
Treatment remains comfortable throughout. Manual therapy may produce mild pressure sensations, but pain is uncommon. Your therapist adjusts techniques matching your tolerance.
Strengthening your core before future pregnancies significantly reduces separation risk and severity. Treatment between pregnancies provides optimal preparation and recovery.
Yes. Men can develop separation from rapid weight changes, heavy lifting, or chronic increased intra-abdominal pressure requiring similar rehabilitation approaches.
No referral is necessary. You can book directly and begin assessment immediately, though some insurance plans may require physician referral for coverage.
Many patients notice improved core control and reduced symptoms within three to four weeks. Visible gap reduction progresses gradually over several months.
Our Professional Team at Physiocare
Prateeksha Viradiya –Physiotherapist at Physiocare in Ottawa Prateeksha Viradiya completed…
Prateeksha Viradiya
Registered Physiotherapist
Avneet Kaur – Registered Physiotherapist with Master's in Physiotherapy Experienced…
Avneet Kaur
Registered Physiotherapist
Vaishnavi Prasad – Physiotherapist | Pediatric, Neurological & Rehabilitation Specialist…
Vaishnavi Prasad
Neurological & Rehabilitation Specialist
Harshitkumar Patel - Resident Physiotherapist at Physiocare in Ottawa Harshitkumar…
Harshitkumar Patel
Resident Physiotherapist
Sharri-Anne: Compassionate and Skilled Medical Office Administrator in Ottawa Sharri-Anne…
Sharri-Anne Parsons
Patient Experience Manager/Corporate Office Manager
Healing Hands, Happy Hearts: What Our Patients Say
Shawn LaBelle
2 months ago
I went here for physiotherapy. My shoulder is getting better after each treatment received. The staff here is exceptional. Thank you to Mehul, Surekha, Mike and Kamal. I definitely recommend coming here!
K G
2 months ago
Due to injury, I needed to start physiotherapy at a new clinic because my previous physiotherapist is currently on maternity leave. To be honest, I was extremely nervous. As a plus size person, I was worried about being judged or body shamed, which unfortunately can be a real concern when seeking healthcare. I'm so grateful that my fears were completely unfounded. From the moment I called, the front desk staff was kind, welcoming, and respectful. They were able to get me in quickly, and I felt comfortable right from the start. My physiotherapist was compassionate, understanding, and completely focused on helping me recover from my injury—NOT on my body size. At no point did I feel judged, criticized, or made to feel uncomfortable. Instead, I felt listened to, respected, and supported. They took the time to explain everything, respected my boundaries, and only performed treatments that I was comfortable with. I never felt pressured into anything. Finding healthcare providers who treat you with dignity and respect can make all the difference, and that was absolutely my experience here. If you've ever been hesitant to seek treatment because you're worried about being judged for your body size, or the weight capacity of the physio tables I highly recommend this clinic. They made me feel safe, respected, and cared for throughout my visit.
Steve Simmons
2 months ago
The team at Physiocare are seasoned professionals and have shown care and understanding during my intense recovery. It is clear they are very experienced but also have excellent bedside manner. Highly recommend this establishment!
MC Chartrand
2 months ago
Excellent service and treatment. Efficient, friendly and understanding staff. Happy that I can continue to play my sports. Thank you Mehul and the excellent staff at your clinic.
Mac
5 months ago
I had a great experience at the clinic. Riddhi is very knowledgeable, professional, and caring. She takes the time to properly assess the problem and clearly explains the treatment plan.
Pooja and Ashish were excellent during my sessions. They were very attentive and supportive, always making sure the exercises were done correctly and safely. Their encouragement and positive attitude made the therapy sessions much easier and more motivating.
Samreen was very friendly and welcoming, was really helpful with scheduling appointments and answering questions.
Pooja and Ashish were excellent during my sessions. They were very attentive and supportive, always making sure the exercises were done correctly and safely. Their encouragement and positive attitude made the therapy sessions much easier and more motivating.
Samreen was very friendly and welcoming, was really helpful with scheduling appointments and answering questions.
Michael Belinson
5 months ago
I had a great experience at Physio Care and wanted to thank Vijay, Ashish, and Samreen for all their help. They were extremely professional, knowledgeable, and supportive throughout my recovery. They took the time to properly assess my injury, explain what was going on, and guide me through the right exercises and treatment to get me back on track. Everyone there created a really welcoming and positive environment, which made the whole process much easier. I really appreciate the care and attention they gave me and would highly recommend Physio Care to anyone looking for high-quality physiotherapy.
Adem mahamoud ali
5 months ago
I had a very good experience with the physiotherapy team. Vani and Riddhi (Physiotherapists) were very professional, knowledgeable, and took the time to understand my condition and explain the treatment clearly. They made sure my recovery plan was right for me and always checked on my progress.
The physio assistants Samreen, Ashish, and Pooja were also very helpful, friendly, and supportive during the exercises and therapy sessions. They made sure I was comfortable and guided me properly through every step.
The whole team created a positive and welcoming environment, and I really appreciate their care and dedication. I highly recommend this clinic to anyone who needs physiotherapy.
The physio assistants Samreen, Ashish, and Pooja were also very helpful, friendly, and supportive during the exercises and therapy sessions. They made sure I was comfortable and guided me properly through every step.
The whole team created a positive and welcoming environment, and I really appreciate their care and dedication. I highly recommend this clinic to anyone who needs physiotherapy.
Amber M
5 months ago
I have been a patient at Physiocare on Greenbank for many years. The staff are very knowledgeable and friendly. You aren’t just a number here. The therapists care about you and want you to be feeling your best. Most recently I have been receiving regular weekly treatments by Nishika. She knows a lot about the body and the best ways to treat her patients. Her assistant Manjot is very kind and friendly and ensures your comfort when hooked up to machines. I enjoy chatting with her. Bhaumik has also stepped in to assist with my treatments when my regular team is busy helping other patients. His bedside manner is lovely and caring. He’s knowledgeable and goes the extra mile to ensure that you understand the treatment or exercise and that you are comfortable. I highly recommend this location for your physiotherapy.
Dharmik Prajapati
6 months ago
I had a great experience at this physiotherapy clinic physiocare (nepean) is highly professional, knowledgeable, and very patient in explaining each treatment. I noticed significant improvement in my condition thanks to their guidance and care.
I would also like to appreciate. Bhaumik panchal for being extremely supportive, polite, and well-organized. The overall environment was comfortable and welcoming.
I highly recommend this clinic to anyone looking for quality physiotherapy treatment.
I would also like to appreciate. Bhaumik panchal for being extremely supportive, polite, and well-organized. The overall environment was comfortable and welcoming.
I highly recommend this clinic to anyone looking for quality physiotherapy treatment.
Citations and References
- Benjamin DR, van de Water AT, Peiris CL – Effects of exercise on diastasis of the rectus abdominis muscle in the antenatal and postnatal periods: a systematic review
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4115611/ - Mota P, Pascoal AG, Carita AI, Bø K – The Immediate Effects on Inter-rectus Distance of Abdominal Crunch and Drawing-in Exercises During Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25575568/ - Physiopedia – Diastasis Recti Abdominis
https://www.physio-pedia.com/Diastasis_Recti_Abdominis - Cleveland Clinic – Diastasis Recti
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22346-diastasis-recti - Gluppe SL, Hilde G, Tennfjord MK, Engh ME, Bø K – Effect of a Postpartum Training Program on the Prevalence of Diastasis Recti Abdominis in Postpartum Primiparous Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29742697/
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