Diastasis recti abdominus is a condition where our “six pack” abdominal muscle lengthens along the midline (linea alba). Just like our hamstrings or quadriceps can stretch to improve range of motion, so does our abdomen. Lengthening does not mean tearing. This condition is most common in pregnant or postpartum women but can also be present in men, infants, and others with rapid weight changes or abdominal strain. It involves a visible or palpable bulge along the center of the abdomen, especially when straining or contracting the abdominal muscles. The bulge (also can be referred to as coning/doming/tenting) is a result of an imbalance of muscle recruitment when performing a given task. In other words, the rectus abdominus muscle is active but the obliques and other deep abdominal muscles are not.
To answer the question, no your abs are not tearing apart!They are in a lengthened state and would benefit from seeing a pelvic floor physical therapist to help lessen the severity of the bulge, improve muscle recruitment of all abdominal muscles, and make daily tasks easier to perform.
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