Diastasis Rectus Abdominis is an excessive prolonged widening and thinning of the midline connective tissue (linea alba).
DRA is often experienced by women during and after pregnancy. Whilst it is normal to experience some degree of separation it should generally resolve naturally postnatally. In approximately 1/3 of women the excessive and prolonged widening can continue and impact abdominal wall function and appearance.
The current research is sparse however many women respond well to individualised rehabilitation and physiotherapists have an important role to play in diagnosis, education and management of DRA.
Rehabilitation of DRA requires a specialist and individualised programme depending on an individuals presentation and specific goals.
