Abdominal Separation: What Is Diastasis Recti and How EMS Can Help
Introduction: Understanding Abdominal Separation
Many new mums experience changes to their body after pregnancy, and one of the most common is abdominal separation, also known as diastasis recti. This condition occurs when the connective tissue in the midline of the stomach stretches, leaving a visible gap or bulge between the abdominal muscles. While it’s a normal part of pregnancy recovery for many women, untreated diastasis recti can affect core strength, posture, and long-term confidence. The good news is there are safe, non-surgical ways to support healing and improve muscle function including EMS therapy at Evolution Laser Clinic. In fact, a 2021 clinical study found that EMS significantly improved abdominal wall restoration in women with postpartum diastasis recti.
What Is Diastasis Recti?
Diastasis recti is the partial or complete separation of the rectus abdominis, the “six-pack” muscles along the linea alba (the connective tissue down the centre of the abdomen).
It most commonly develops during pregnancy due to the growing uterus stretching abdominal tissue, but it can also affect men or women after significant weight changes or core strain.
Typical signs of abdominal separation include:
- A visible bulge or “doming” in the stomach when sitting up or straining
- Core weakness, making it harder to perform certain movements
- Lower back discomfort or poor posture
- A feeling of instability in the midsection
Why It Matters for Core Strength & Health
Abdominal separation isn’t just a cosmetic concern. Because the rectus abdominis helps stabilise your trunk, a gap can lead to reduced core strength and alignment issues. Over time, this may contribute to:
- Back pain
- Pelvic floor weakness
- Reduced exercise performance
- Difficulty lifting or carrying without strain
Strengthening and retraining the core is important not only for aesthetics but also for long-term stability and function.
Traditional Approaches to Recovery
Conservative treatment for diastasis recti often includes:
- Physiotherapy and core exercises: Targeted movements help re-engage deep abdominal muscles.
- Lifestyle adjustments: Avoiding heavy lifting, sit-ups, or straining early in recovery.
- Support garments: Belly bands or wraps to provide external support while tissue heals.
While these methods can be effective, progress is gradual and often requires consistent effort. Many people look for additional ways to strengthen the area safely – which is where non-surgical treatments like EMS come in.
What Is EMS (Electric Muscle Stimulation)?
EMS therapy uses electromagnetic energy to trigger thousands of powerful muscle contractions in a single session. Unlike traditional exercise, which activates muscles voluntarily, EMS reaches deeper fibres and creates contractions that are difficult to achieve through regular training alone.
At Evolution Laser Clinic, our Electrical Muscle Stimulation treatments are designed to target specific body zones, including the abdomen, to support core strength and post-pregnancy recovery.
How EMS Supports Core Healing
When it comes to post-pregnancy abdominal separation, EMS can complement traditional recovery methods by:
- Activating the rectus abdominis and deeper core muscles without straining connective tissue.
- Supporting the rebuilding of muscle tone in the abdominal wall.
- Helping reduce the visible bulge by improving firmness and strength.
- Enhancing circulation and muscle conditioning, which can support overall recovery.
While EMS is not a replacement for physiotherapy or medical care, it can be a powerful addition to a holistic recovery plan under professional guidance.
Key Benefits of EMS for Diastasis Recti
- Non-surgical and non-invasive: No downtime, incisions, or anaesthetic.
- Efficient sessions: A 30-minute treatment can trigger thousands of contractions.
- Targeted strengthening: Focuses on the abdominal wall where support is most needed.
- Post-pregnancy support: Complements natural healing and safe core exercises.
- Confidence boost: Improved tone and function may help clients feel stronger and more supported in daily life.
Conclusion: Combining EMS with a Holistic Plan
Abdominal separation, or diastasis recti, is a common concern after pregnancy but it doesn’t have to be permanent. While exercise and physiotherapy remain important, adding EMS therapy can accelerate results by engaging muscles deeply and safely.
At Evolution Laser Clinic, our trained team uses advanced EMS technology to help clients restore core strength, improve abdominal tone, and support long-term recovery.
Ready to find out if EMS is right for you?
