The Truth About “Mommy Tummy”: Diastasis Recti & Physical Therapy

If you’ve ever looked in the mirror months (or even years) after having a baby and wondered why your belly still looks “poochy,” you’re not alone. Many women assume it’s just stubborn baby weight, but the real cause might be something called diastasis recti. At Sparq Physical Therapy in Castle Rock, we see this all the time, and the good news is: you don’t have to “live with it.”

What is Diastasis Recti?

Diastasis recti happens when the connective tissue between your abdominal muscles stretches and thins, often during pregnancy. This separation can leave your core feeling weak, your posture off, and your belly looking rounded even long after delivery. While it’s extremely common, it’s not something you have to ignore.

Why Does Diastasis Recti Happen?

During pregnancy, your growing belly naturally stretches the linea alba (the tissue running down the center of your abs). Add in hormonal changes that soften connective tissue, and it makes sense why so many moms experience this. But diastasis recti isn’t just a cosmetic concern—it can also contribute to:

• Low back pain

• Pelvic floor dysfunction (like leaking with sneezing or running)

• Core weakness that makes exercise and daily movement harder

Can Physical Therapy Help Diastasis Recti?

Yes, and this is exactly where pelvic floor physical therapy shines. At Sparq Physical Therapy, we take a one-on-one approach to assess how your core and pelvic floor are working together. Through gentle, targeted exercises, we help your body relearn how to activate the deep muscles that support healing and strength.

Some of the tools we use include:

• Breathwork training to reduce pressure on the abdominal wall

• Core and pelvic floor coordination exercises

• Safe progressions that rebuild strength without worsening the separation

It’s not about endless crunches or sit-ups (those can actually make things worse!), it’s about retraining your body to work as a system again.

What About Surgery?

While surgery is an option for severe cases, most people benefit from starting with conservative physical therapy. Many women see significant improvements in function, strength, and appearance without ever needing to consider a surgical repair.

You Don’t Have to Live With “Mommy Tummy”

The truth is, diastasis recti is common, but it’s not something you’re stuck with forever. With the right guidance, your body is incredibly capable of healing and regaining strength.

If you’re in the Castle Rock area and wondering if physical therapy can help with your “mommy tummy” or diastasis recti, we’d love to be your guide. At Sparq Physical Therapy, we specialize in pelvic health and one-on-one personalized care to help you feel strong, confident, and supported.

Ready to take the first step? Schedule an appointment with Sparq Physical Therapy and let’s get your core working for you again.

Because you deserve to feel good in your body—inside and out.

FAQs About Diastasis Recti and Pelvic Floor Therapy

What is pelvic floor therapy? Pelvic floor therapy is a type of physical therapy that focuses on strengthening and restoring function to the muscles that support your bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. It’s especially effective when combined with core training for diastasis recti.

How does pelvic floor physical therapy help diastasis recti? A pelvic floor therapist teaches you how to engage your deep core and pelvic floor muscles together properly. This coordination reduces abdominal pressure, protects your healing tissue, and gradually closes the gap between your abdominal muscles.

Can diastasis recti heal without surgery? Yes, many cases improve significantly with conservative treatment like physical therapy. Surgery is typically reserved for severe separations or when other symptoms persist despite therapy.

When should I see a physical therapist for diastasis recti? It’s never too early or too late. Whether you’re weeks postpartum or years beyond, pelvic floor physical therapy can help restore strength, reduce pain, and improve appearance.

Is diastasis recti the same as “mommy tummy”? Not always. While a persistent belly “pooch” is a common sign of diastasis recti, it can also come with symptoms like back pain, core weakness, or pelvic floor issues. A physical therapist can evaluate what’s really going on.