Definition
Diastasis recti is a separation between the left and right side of the rectus abdominis muscle, which covers the front surface of the belly area.
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Diastasis recti is a common and normal condition in newborns. It is seen most frequently in premature and African American infants.
In pregnant women, increased tension on the abdominal wall may lead to diastasis recti. Multiple births or repeated pregnancies increase the risk.
Women who are 12 or more weeks pregnant should avoid aggressive abdominal exercises, which may worsen the condition.
Pictures & Images
Diastasis recti
Diastasis recti, a normal condition in newborns, is a separation of the left and right side of the rectus abdominis muscle, which is the muscle covering the front surface of the abdomen. A diastasis recti is seen as a large ridge running down the midline of the abdomen from the bottom of the breastbone to the navel which appears whenever an infant strains or attempts to sit up.
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Diastasis recti : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
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Diastasis recti : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
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Diastasis recti : Treatment
Review Date : 10/15/2007
Reviewed By : Deirdre O’Reilly, MD, MPH, Neonatologist, Division of Newborn Medicine, Children’s Hospital Boston and Instructor in Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts. Review Provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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