Abdominal separation post natally

[jioane]

What is "normal" re abdo separation post natally? I have been informed that most women who have had a baby have at least a 1 fingerwidth separation even years afterwards. Is this normal? Should these women not do abdo crunches/situps? What do other physios tell women in post natal education about their abdos and exercises?

[bender]

Abdo separation will persist if women don't do postnatal exercise correctly. Abdo crunches and sit-ups are not indicated. Strenuous abdo exercise is indicated when the rectus muscle is no longer separated. In the first instance women should do transversus exercises along the lines of the abdo stabilizing stuff being taught for core stability in back pain management and prevention. Such exercise is easily done in standing and ultimately in any position. It makes sense to encourage women to do simple exercises little and often and fit them in when they can. How many Mums have the energy or inclination to be lying down to do a complicated exercise program with a new baby in the house?

[NARSTR]

Totally agree - stay away from crunches and other curly things. 1 finger diastasis which remains for years post-natally is not considered normal. Core stability work is taught now to many post natal women in classes Aust-wide. No evidence based stuff yet - too early- but at least it seems to work and it is safe.

[iaaron_at]

well...hi!!!!!! try approximating your abs together with your hands placed diagonally across you abdomen as you raise you head and neck from a supine position.
avoid pure curl ups!!!!!! do contact me if you have any doubts.... iaaron_at@yahoo.com , iaaron_at@physiobase.com