A physical therapist's assessment for diastasis rectus abdominis may consider which factor?

A physical therapist's assessment for diastasis rectus abdominis may consider which factor?

• A. Use of a supportive belt
• B. Previous pregnancy
• C. Good core strength
• D. High activity level

Answer: (B)

The assessment for diastasis rectus abdominis often takes into account previous pregnancy as a significant factor. During pregnancy, the abdominal muscles and connective tissues undergo stretching to accommodate the growing fetus, which often leads to the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles. This separation can persist postpartum, affecting core stability and function. Therefore, understanding a patient’s obstetric history, particularly instances of pregnancy, is essential in evaluating the potential for diastasis rectus abdominis. While supportive belts can be helpful in managing symptoms associated with diastasis rectus abdominis, their use is more of a management strategy rather than a key assessment factor. Good core strength and high activity levels are also important in evaluating overall function and potential impact of the condition but do not directly relate to the assessment of diastasis rectus abdominis like previous pregnancies do.

The assessment for diastasis rectus abdominis often takes into account previous pregnancy as a significant factor. During pregnancy, the abdominal muscles and connective tissues undergo stretching to accommodate the growing fetus, which often leads to the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles. This separation can persist postpartum, affecting core stability and function. Therefore, understanding a patient’s obstetric history, particularly instances of pregnancy, is essential in evaluating the potential for diastasis rectus abdominis.

While supportive belts can be helpful in managing symptoms associated with diastasis rectus abdominis, their use is more of a management strategy rather than a key assessment factor. Good core strength and high activity levels are also important in evaluating overall function and potential impact of the condition but do not directly relate to the assessment of diastasis rectus abdominis like previous pregnancies do.