These quick and simple tests will help you to check your own abdomen for diastasis recti before your physical therapy appointment.
Curl Up Test:
Lie on your back with your knees bent. Lift your head and shoulders up.
Also, if you notice a bulge or doming of the midline with your curl up, then this test is positive.
Active Straight Leg Test:
Lie on your back with both legs straight. Lift one leg straight up to about 2 inches.
If you notice any of the following with the above tests, then seeking help from a knowledgeable pelvic floor physical therapist is advised:
– Back pain, pubic pain.
– Feel the borders of the rectus abdominal muscles along the midline of your belly. Do you notice a soft gap or separation of these muscles?
– Do you see a bulging or doming of the abdomen?
– Feel the opening of the vagina with one finger. Do you feel a bulging?
Checking for doming of the abdomen
(These instructions are courtesy of Diane Lee and the Physical Therapy Association of British Columbia)
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