Diastasis recti abdominis – what factors may exacerbate the condition?

The objective of this study was to assess the relationship between the extent of diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) and risk factors described in the literature. Material and Methods. The study included 213 individuals (97 men and 116 women) aged 20–42 years. The research tools comprised: a proprietary questionnaire, the IPAQ Short Form, the curl-up test, and the Beighton scale. Results. Diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) was diagnosed in 77% of women and 82% of men. A statistically significant correlation was found between the extent of DRA in women and the following variables: BMI (p < 0.001), WHR (p ≤ 0.044), protruding costal arches (p = 0.010), type of exercise (p = 0.056), joint hypermobility (p = 0.035), level of physical activity (p = 0.041), wearing tight clothing (p = 0.026), and abdominal surgeries (p < 0.001). In men, the extent of DRA was correlated with the level of physical activity (p = 0.004), wearing tight clothing (p < 0.001), and WHR (p = 0.006). Conclusions. The obtained data vary by sex. In women, the extent of DRA depends on BMI, WHR, breathing pattern, joint hypermobility, level of physical activity, abdominal surgeries, and wearing tight clothing. In men, the extent of DRA is associated with physical activity level, WHR, and wearing tight clothing. Early identification of the risk of DRA may influence exercise selection, patient education, and preventive strategies.