Harvard Health Content API

Diastasis recti occurs when the rectus abdominis muscle — the “six-pack” — separates and leads to a midline abdominal bulge. This might happen because of pregnancy, aging, genetics, excessive abdominal pressure, or abdominal surgery. The bulge becomes more noticeable when lifting heavy objects, getting out of bed, or even performing everyday tasks. The condition usually doesn’t resolve on its own. Working with a physical therapist can help decrease the muscle separation.

A urine test, also known as a urinalysis, can reveal a great deal about a person’s health. The kidneys produce urine to remove excess fluid and waste products from the body. But urine also contains various chemicals, minerals, toxins, bacteria, and red and white blood cells. Analyzing a urine sample with visual, chemical, and microscopic exams can reveal the presence and amounts of these substances, which can provide clues to specific conditions.

Among 12 physical therapy approaches for knee osteoarthritis compared in a 2025 study, three stood out. Knee braces, followed by hydrotherapy (exercise in water) and exercise (strength training and aerobics), were best for reducing pain and stiffness and improving physical function.

A 2025 study of over 5,600 women and men followed for over 30 years found that following a Mediterranean diet may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and improve cognitive function. The effect is strongest in people who carry two copies of the Alzheimer’s risk gene APOE4.

Complete recovery from total knee replacement surgery can take six to 12 months. Working with a physical therapist to regain strength and mobility, most people can return to normal daily function within three months. It’s important to remain active once physical therapy concludes. Lower-impact activities, such as walking, hiking, biking, swimming, golfing, strength training, and aerobic activities, are recommended. High-impact activities, such as running, may shorten the life span of the implant.

An exercise routine that targets muscles in the legs and buttocks can help build the strength and stability that are essential for daily functioning. Lunges are an excellent exercise for this. Older adults can do them safely if they have sufficient leg strength to do the exercise correctly. For those who lack the necessary strength, modified versions can be done until it’s possible to gradually work up to doing the full lunge. Once that is mastered, more advanced versions include the side lunge and walking lunge. Holding weights can increase the challenge.

A 2025 study suggested that consuming larger amounts of artificial sweeteners such as aspartame and xylitol may be linked to faster declines in memory and thinking skills.

An x-ray, CT scan, or MRI is usually not needed for addressing low back pain unless people have other symptoms or risk factors for a serious condition. Short-term rest, heat or cold, and over-the-counter medication can ease discomfort until the back pain goes away.

Poor night vision could be caused by an outdated eyeglass prescription or an eye condition, such as dry eye, cataracts, or age-related macular degeneration. People should see an eye care specialist for a complete eye exam to check for these issues.

More men are being diagnosed with prostate cancer, according to a 2025 study. Black men have a higher incidence of cancer and are twice as likely to die from the condition compared with white men.