Diastasis recti is a common condition where the rectus abdominis muscles, often called the “six-pack abs,” separate. This separation occurs due to the stretching of the linea alba, a connective tissue that runs down the midline of the abdomen. While frequently associated with pregnancy and childbirth, it can also affect men and newborns. This abdominal separation can result in a visible bulge, impacting core stability and sometimes leading to discomfort or lower back pain.
How Taping Provides Support
Kinesiology tape offers a non-invasive way to provide support for diastasis recti. Unlike rigid athletic tape, kinesiology tape is designed to mimic the elasticity of human skin, allowing for a full range of motion. When applied correctly, it gently approximates the separated rectus abdominis muscles, helping to draw them closer to the midline. This approximation offers external support.
Beyond physical support, the tape provides proprioceptive feedback to the brain. Proprioception is the body’s ability to sense its position and movement. The tape’s presence on the skin increases awareness of the abdominal area, subtly reminding the wearer to engage their deep core muscles, such as the transverse abdominis. This sensory input encourages better muscle activation and improved posture.
Guidelines for Application
Proper skin preparation is essential before applying kinesiology tape to ensure optimal adhesion and minimize skin irritation. The skin should be clean, dry, and free of oils, lotions, or sweat. If the area has significant body hair, trimming it to about 1/8 inch can improve tape adherence and make removal less uncomfortable. It is advisable to apply the tape at least one hour before activities that cause sweating or water exposure.
Common application patterns include horizontal or criss-cross methods. Cut strips to length, rounding corners to prevent peeling. Create an “anchor” by tearing the backing 2-3 inches from one end, applying this part to the skin without stretch. Apply the tape across the abdomen with light to medium tension (around 25% stretch), guiding muscles towards the midline, ensuring tape ends (“tails”) are applied without stretch. After application, gently rub the tape from the center outwards to activate the adhesive; it can typically be worn for 2 to 3 days, even during showers or swimming, but should be patted dry afterward.
What to Expect from Taping
Taping for diastasis recti serves as a supportive measure, not a standalone cure. It can contribute to improved core stability and help reduce discomfort. Individuals may notice a more supported feeling and a reduction in the visible bulge, especially when engaging core muscles. The tape’s proprioceptive input also enhances body awareness, aiding conscious engagement of deep abdominal muscles during daily activities and exercise.
It is important to maintain realistic expectations regarding the outcomes of taping. While studies suggest that kinesiology taping, especially when combined with exercises, can be effective in reducing the inter-recti distance, it typically does not fully close the gap permanently on its own. Taping is most effective as part of a comprehensive program with targeted exercises to strengthen deep core muscles. It provides temporary external support and sensory feedback, complementing the body’s internal efforts to restore abdominal integrity.
Key Considerations for Use
Before applying kinesiology tape, perform a patch test on a small skin area, such as the forearm, to check for adverse reactions. Leave the test patch on for at least 30 minutes to an hour, or up to 24 hours if using it for the first time. If itching, redness, or discomfort occurs, remove the tape immediately. Skin irritation can arise from over-stretching the tape during application, creating excessive friction or pulling.
Certain conditions make taping inappropriate. Kinesiology tape should not be applied over open wounds, broken skin, or areas with active infections. Individuals with very sensitive or thinning skin, severe allergic reactions to adhesives, or certain medical conditions like deep vein thrombosis or active cancer should avoid using it. When removing the tape, do so slowly and gently, pulling it in the direction of hair growth. Using warm water, soap, or oils like baby oil can help loosen the adhesive and make removal less painful; always consult with a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or doctor, before starting any new treatment for diastasis recti to ensure its appropriateness.