Episode 64: Replay: How to heal from Diastasis Recti: Interview with Shelley DiCecco

This weeks episode is a replay of one of my most downloaded episodes. I also recently uploaded a video of the ab approximation exercise discussed in this episode on my TikTok page. Click here to follow me on TikTok and to watch that video: https://www.tiktok.com/@findingyourvillageIn this episode we discuss: Shelley’s background as a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist Shelley is a PT at Sports Rehab at BrookhavenShe also teaches entry level Physical Therapists at a medical school in AtlantaWhat does a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist do? My story with a Pelvic Floor PT:helped me heal from pain using the restroom after having a vaginal birthhelped me heal from Diastatis Recti...twice, after both of my pregnanciesPart of the program was visits to see a PT regularly and doing exercises comprised of ab approximations for 30 minutes a dayWhat is Diastasis Recti?When a PT is checking you for how wide a separation you have they should be checking in 3 places Above belly buttonAt belly buttonBelow belly buttonJust wearing a splint, brace, wrap or doing ab contractions will not bring the linea alba close together enough to heal. Doing ab contractions and crunches will actually make your DR worseThe only true way to FULLY heal from DR is to approximate your rectus abdominus muscles while you do rehabilitation exercise. How to do this: Lay on the ground, push your fingers down into the sides of your belly, then squeeze your fingers and belly skin/muscles toward each other, then contract your abs in and hold for 10 secondsRepeat this for 3 sets of 30 Sign up for my newsletter here to see a video of me demonstrating this exercise. Including my adorable belly donut!Exercises and activities to avoid when you have a Diastasis Recti: PlanksCrunchesAb exercises without doing an approximation firstMost mainstream forms of yoga and pilatesHow to find a Pelvic Floor Physical TherapistYou may need a referral from your OB, midwife or other practitioner, depending on your state and insuranceAsk for a referral at your 6 week postpartum visitGo to www.apta.org to find a Pelvic Floor PT in your areaHow to get in touch with ShelleyEmail: shelleydicecco@gmail.com How to get in touch with me: My Virtual 4-week online Birth ClassFollow me on Instagram and on TikTokFind other episodes at: www.findingyourvillagepod.comEmail me at amanda@findingyourvillagepod.com Monthly Newsletter Visit www.keepsakecastle.com today!Support the show