Healing from C-Section and Diastasis Recti with Physical Therapy
A C-section is a major abdominal surgery—and recovery is more than just resting for six weeks. For many women, the healing process is longer, more layered, and includes challenges that aren’t always visible from the outside. Add in diastasis recti (the separation of abdominal muscles), and suddenly “bouncing back” feels anything but simple.
The truth is, healing after a C-section requires more than time—it requires support. Physical therapy can play a vital role in helping you rebuild strength, restore core function, and feel confident in your postpartum body.
At MVMT GB in Green Bay, we specialize in helping women navigate postnatal recovery with clarity and care. In this blog, we’ll walk you through what diastasis recti really is, how physical therapy can help, and the signs that your body might need more guidance during this important chapter.
READ: How Pelvic Floor Therapy Helps New Moms Recover Safely After Childbirth
What Is Diastasis Recti and Why Does It Matter?
Diastasis recti is the partial or complete separation of the rectus abdominis—the “six-pack” muscles—that commonly occurs during pregnancy. As the uterus expands, it puts pressure on the abdominal wall, stretching the connective tissue (called the linea alba) that holds those muscles together.
This separation is completely normal during pregnancy, but in some cases, it doesn’t resolve on its own after birth. When that gap remains, it can lead to a variety of issues, including:
A visible bulge or “doming” along the midline of the abdomen
Core weakness and poor trunk control
Low back pain or pelvic instability
Difficulty returning to exercise safely
Feelings of disconnection or pressure in the core
Diastasis recti isn’t just cosmetic—it affects how your entire body moves and functions. The good news? With targeted physical therapy, it can be treated effectively, helping you feel stronger and more supported in your postpartum recovery.
How Physical Therapy Supports Healing Post-C-Section
C-section recovery is about more than letting your incision heal. It involves rebuilding the integrity of your core, reconnecting with your pelvic floor, and regaining the confidence to move without hesitation or discomfort. Physical therapy provides a structured, supportive way to navigate each of these layers of healing.
READ: Pelvic Floor Rehab for Runners: How to Overcome Leaking, Prolapse & Diastasis Recti
Restoring Core Stability and Pelvic Floor Function
After pregnancy and surgery, your deep core muscles—including the transverse abdominis and pelvic floor—may not automatically re-engage the way they used to. A physical therapist can guide you through gentle activation techniques and progressive core exercises to help rebuild a strong, functional foundation.
Managing Scar Tissue and Improving Mobility
The C-section scar can impact how your tissues move and feel—not just at the skin level, but also deeper into the abdominal wall. Hands-on techniques and scar tissue mobilization can reduce sensitivity, improve flexibility, and help your body move more freely and comfortably.
Supporting Daily Function and Return to Exercise
Lifting your baby, getting in and out of bed, or returning to fitness classes—these are daily movements that can feel surprisingly hard post-C-section. Physical therapy helps you safely rebuild the strength and movement patterns needed for everyday life and future training goals, with confidence and control.
Physical therapy isn’t about pushing—it’s about progressing with purpose, at the pace that’s right for your body.
Signs It’s Time to Work with a Physical Therapist
Every postpartum journey is different, but there are some common signs that your body may need extra support to heal fully after a C-section. If you’re experiencing any of the following, working with a physical therapist could make a meaningful difference:
Persistent core weakness or a sense of “disconnection”
If your abs feel like they’re not responding the way they used to—or you struggle to engage them during movement—you may have lingering diastasis or coordination issues.Back pain or pelvic discomfort
These symptoms often show up when the core and pelvic floor aren’t functioning optimally. A strong center is key to pain-free movement and posture.C-section scar sensitivity or tightness
If your scar feels stuck, tender, or limits your movement, targeted manual therapy can improve mobility and reduce discomfort.Doming or bulging during movement
Seeing a ridge or bulge down the midline when sitting up or lifting could be a sign of diastasis recti that’s not healing properly.Uncertainty about returning to exercise
A physical therapist can help you ease back into movement safely, with a plan that supports your goals without risking setbacks.
If any of these resonate, you don’t have to wait it out or push through. Support is available—and it works.
READ: Managing Overactive Bladder and Urinary Urgency with Physical Therapy
Why MVMT GB Is a Go-To for C-Section Recovery in Green Bay
At MVMT Performance & Rehabilitation, we understand that postpartum recovery isn’t one-size-fits-all—especially after a C-section. Our approach combines clinical expertise with compassionate, individualized care to help you feel stronger, supported, and more in control of your healing process.
Here’s what makes our care different:
Personalized, one-on-one sessions tailored to your body, your goals, and your timeline
Expert assessment of diastasis recti, scar mobility, and core function
Whole-body movement strategies that address not just the core, but how you move in daily life
Guidance for returning to exercise with confidence and clarity—no guesswork, no fear
A space where your recovery is respected, and your strength is celebrated every step of the way
Whether you're just a few weeks postpartum or still struggling months (or years) later, it’s never too late to reconnect with your body and reclaim how you move and feel.
Take the First Step Toward Confident, Supported Healing
Healing after a C-section—especially with diastasis recti—can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. With the right support, guidance, and movement plan, it’s possible to rebuild strength, reduce discomfort, and reconnect with your body in a powerful way.
At MVMT Performance & Rehabilitation we’re here to walk that path with you. Whether you’re newly postpartum or still working through lingering symptoms months or years later, we’ll meet you where you are and help you move forward—one intentional step at a time.
READ: Transforming Pelvic Health: How MVMT GB Supports Men and Women with Expert Physical Therapy
Ready to feel stronger, more supported, and more like yourself again? Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our approach to C-section recovery physical therapy.