Infant Diastasis Recti

Infant Diastasis Recti

Diastasis recti is a condition where the abdominal muscles separate, causing a gap between the left and right sides of the rectus abdominis muscle. It commonly occurs in pregnant women due to the stretching and pressure on the abdominal muscles during pregnancy, but it can also affect infants.

In infants, diastasis recti is usually congenital, meaning the condition is present at birth. It occurs due to a weakness in the connective tissue that holds the abdominal muscles together. The exact cause of infant diastasis recti is not fully understood, but it may be related to genetic factors or abnormal development of the abdominal wall.

Infant diastasis recti is typically not a cause for concern and often resolves on its own as the infant grows and develops. In most cases, the gap between the abdominal muscles closes naturally by the age of 12 to 18 months. During this time, the abdominal muscles become stronger, and the connective tissue gradually tightens.

It's important to note that diastasis recti in infants is different from diastasis recti in adults. In adults, diastasis recti may require specific exercises or, in severe cases, surgical intervention. However, for infants, treatment is generally not necessary unless there are associated complications or other underlying conditions. If you have concerns about your child's diastasis recti, it's best to consult with a pediatrician who can evaluate the condition and provide appropriate guidance and recommendations.

Signs of diastasis recti in babies at 6 and 8 months

Diastasis recti in babies is typically diagnosed by a healthcare professional during a physical examination. However, there are some signs that parents can look out for that may indicate the presence of diastasis recti in infants, including at 6 and 8 months of age. Here are some signs to be aware of.

Visible protrusion: You may notice a bulge or ridge running down the middle of your baby's abdomen when they contract their abdominal muscles or sit up. This can be a sign of diastasis recti.

Gaps between abdominal muscles: When your baby is lying down, you can gently press along the midline of their abdomen with your fingers. If you feel a gap or separation between the abdominal muscles, it may suggest diastasis recti.

Weak core muscles: Babies with diastasis recti may have weaker abdominal muscles compared to other infants. This can be observed when they are attempting to sit up or perform movements that engage their core muscles.

It's important to note that some degree of separation between the abdominal muscles is normal in infants, especially during the early months of life. However, if you suspect that your baby may have diastasis recti or if you have any concerns about their abdominal muscles, it is recommended to consult with a pediatrician or a healthcare professional. They can perform a thorough examination and provide appropriate guidance based on your baby's individual circumstances.

When does diastasis recti resolve in infants?

Diastasis recti in infants often resolves on its own as the baby grows and develops. The closure of the gap between the abdominal muscles varies from one child to another. In most cases, diastasis recti in infants resolves naturally without any intervention by the age of 12 to 18 months.

As the baby grows, the abdominal muscles become stronger, and the connective tissue gradually tightens, leading to the closure of the gap. Encouraging your baby to engage in age-appropriate activities and movements that strengthen their core muscles, such as tummy time and crawling, can also aid in the resolution of diastasis recti.

It's important to note that while most cases of infant diastasis recti resolve spontaneously, there can be exceptions. In some rare instances, diastasis recti may persist beyond infancy or be associated with underlying conditions. If you have concerns about your baby's diastasis recti or if it persists beyond the expected timeframe, it is best to consult with a pediatrician. They can evaluate the condition, provide appropriate guidance, and rule out any underlying issues that may require further attention.