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What is a DRAM?
A DRAM is an abbreviation for a separation of your rectus abdominis muscle. Your rectus abdominis muscle is the muscle in the midline of your abdomen and it has a major role in providing stability to your lower back and trunk. Why is important to have my DRAM assessed? During the post natal period, your body undergoes healing for around 3-4 months. After 4 months your body is unlikely to be able to repair your DRAM any further without any specific abdominal exercises. An assessment of your DRAM in the early post natal period will help identify if you have a significant DRAM which places you at increased risk of low back pain, pelvic floor dysfunction, abdominal hernias and other injury. A DRAM which is greater than 2cm anywhere along your abdomen is considered to be clinically significant and requires specific abdominal exercises. What should avoid if I have a DRAM? If you have a DRAM you should avoid the following: · Heavy lifting and carrying · Sit ups, V ups, oblique twists · Any abdominal exercises that cause the abdomen to bulge · Any abdominal stretches |