Skip to main content
Physical Therapy for Diastasis Recti pick pt rexburg idaho falls rigby

Physical Therapy for Diastasis Recti

Diastasis Recti is more common than many people realize, yet it is often misunderstood or overlooked. If you have noticed a persistent gap or bulge in your abdomen, ongoing core weakness, back pain, or difficulty returning to normal movement after pregnancy or weight changes, you may be dealing with Diastasis Recti. At Pick PT, we specialize in helping people understand their bodies and heal safely through personalized physical therapy. Our goal is to help you feel strong, confident, and comfortable in your body again.

What to Expect From Diastasis Recti Physical Therapy at Pick PT

Your care at Pick PT begins with a thorough evaluation. We take time to understand your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and goals. We assess your posture, breathing patterns, core activation, and movement mechanics.

Based on this evaluation, we create a personalized treatment plan designed specifically for your body.

Core Reeducation and Activation

We focus on teaching you how to properly activate your deep abdominal muscles. This includes retraining muscles that may not be working efficiently after pregnancy or injury. Learning proper engagement helps support the abdominal wall and reduce strain.

Breathing and Diaphragm Training

Breathing plays a major role in core stability. Many people with Diastasis Recti unknowingly hold their breath or use shallow breathing patterns. We teach techniques that improve coordination between the diaphragm and core muscles.

Postural Training and Movement Education

Poor posture and movement habits can increase pressure on the abdominal wall. At Pick PT, we teach you how to move, lift, sit, and stand in ways that protect your core and promote healing.

Progressive Strengthening

As your core control improves, we guide you through safe strengthening exercises for the abdomen, hips, and back. Progressions are carefully chosen to avoid excessive strain while building functional strength.

Guidance for Daily Life and Exercise

We help you understand which activities to avoid temporarily and how to modify exercises and daily tasks. This guidance empowers you to continue improving outside the clinic.

Diastasis Recti After Pregnancy

Diastasis Recti is especially common during pregnancy and postpartum recovery. Hormonal changes, growing abdominal pressure, and muscle stretching all contribute to separation.

Many people feel pressure to bounce back quickly after childbirth, but rushing into high-intensity exercise can delay healing. Physical therapy provides a safe, supportive environment to rebuild strength gradually.

At Pick PT, we understand the physical and emotional aspects of postpartum recovery. We meet you where you are and help you progress at a pace that feels right for your body.

Diastasis Recti Is Not Just a Women’s Issue

Although often associated with pregnancy, Diastasis Recti can affect anyone. Men and non-postpartum individuals may develop abdominal separation due to heavy lifting, poor core mechanics, or weight fluctuations.

Regardless of how Diastasis Recti developed, physical therapy focuses on restoring proper function and strength.

FAQ

Can Diastasis Recti heal without surgery?

In many cases, yes. Physical therapy is often the most effective first line of treatment. Surgery is typically only considered when conservative care does not provide sufficient improvement.

How long does physical therapy for Diastasis Recti take?

The timeline varies depending on the severity of the separation and individual goals. Many people notice improvements within weeks, with continued progress over several months.

Will physical therapy close the gap completely?

The goal of therapy is improved function and strength, not just gap size. Many people see a reduction in separation along with better core control and comfort.

Is it too late to treat Diastasis Recti?

No. Even if you are years postpartum or have had symptoms for a long time, physical therapy can still help improve function and reduce symptoms.

Can I exercise with Diastasis Recti?

Yes, but exercise selection matters. Physical therapy helps you learn which movements support healing and which ones to avoid or modify.
Schedule Appointment

Rexburg

160 W 2nd S #1
Rexburg, ID 83440

Fax: (208)534-7002

Mon & Wed 7am-7pm
Tues & Thurs 8am-12pm
Friday 7am-6pm

Rigby

711 Rigby Lake Dr Suite 102
Rigby, ID 83442

Fax: (208)754-1220

Mon, Wed, & Fri 7am-7pm
Tues & Thurs 8am-12pm

Idaho Falls

2277 E Lincoln Rd
Idaho Falls, ID 83401

Fax: (208)534-7002

Mon, Wed, & Fri 7am-7pm
Tues & Thurs 8am-12pm

921 S Utah Ave
Idaho Falls, ID 83402

Fax: (208)701-2952

Mon, Wed, & Fri 7am-6pm
Tues & Thurs 8am-12pm

3155 Channing Way D
Idaho Falls, ID 83404

Fax: (208)973-4171

Mon, Wed, & Fri 7am-6pm
Tues & Thurs 8am-12pm