Hi! I checked my abs for diastsis recti yesterday, and found a separation of about 1 finger width. At 1st I though I needed to start modifying all ab work. But then I started researching on the internet, and some sources say it isn't worrisome as long as it's less than 2 finger widths. Others say if there is ANY separation you should be cautious. So I'm very confused. Should I be splinting my abs and modifying or not? Thanks!!
Ab separation question -- Attn. Sheila
- Thread starter Erin-F
- Start date
Gina
Diastasis recti is when there is a separation in the 2 muscles that run vertically down the midline of the abdomen. This is caused by the softening of the ligaments and tissues. It's very common during pregnancy as the uterus is getting bigger and pushing up and put. I had thought that once there was any separation you needed to modify the abs and eliminate crunches, but I've been finding some contradictory info. At VF a person responded that you only have to modify when you get up to 3 finger widths separation. Hopefully Sheila will jump in and help us out.
Here is a link with pics and everything of what I'm talking about:
http://www.childbirth-connections.com/exercise3.html
Catch ya' later!
Erin and ? ( Due date 3/8/03 )
Diastasis recti is when there is a separation in the 2 muscles that run vertically down the midline of the abdomen. This is caused by the softening of the ligaments and tissues. It's very common during pregnancy as the uterus is getting bigger and pushing up and put. I had thought that once there was any separation you needed to modify the abs and eliminate crunches, but I've been finding some contradictory info. At VF a person responded that you only have to modify when you get up to 3 finger widths separation. Hopefully Sheila will jump in and help us out.
Here is a link with pics and everything of what I'm talking about:
http://www.childbirth-connections.com/exercise3.html
Catch ya' later!
Erin and ? ( Due date 3/8/03 )
RE: Gina
Twisting obliques are the biggest culprits in exacerbating the problem once it exists... and not just in exercise... I had a slight split (2-2 1/2 fingers) after each pregnancy, and I found that the worst thing I was doing was twisting to tend to my kids in the back seat of the car.
There are ab exercises you can still do if you have diastasis, but regular crunches and esp. twisting movments (like shoulder toward opposite hip...)are no-no's...
Susan
Twisting obliques are the biggest culprits in exacerbating the problem once it exists... and not just in exercise... I had a slight split (2-2 1/2 fingers) after each pregnancy, and I found that the worst thing I was doing was twisting to tend to my kids in the back seat of the car.
There are ab exercises you can still do if you have diastasis, but regular crunches and esp. twisting movments (like shoulder toward opposite hip...)are no-no's...
Susan