Diastasis rectus abdominis – Should we open or close the gap?

Background: Diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA) is very common in the obstetric patient. While most women recover both the cosmetic appearance and function of the abdominal wall in the postnatal period, persistent separation of the rectus abdominis muscles occurs in some. Rehabilitation has traditionally focused on exercises to ‘close the gap’ and reduce the inter-recti distance (IRD). New evidence shows that if this is the sole goal, function may not be restored.

Source: Manual Therapy - April 1, 2017 Category: Physiotherapy Authors: D. Lee, P.W. Hodges Source Type: research