The strain of the Abdominal Muscle

Overuse injuries often cause a pulled stomach muscle or abdominal muscle strain. This happens when the stomach muscles are stretched or torn. This injury is common in tennis and football players. However, anyone can strain their abdominal muscles. Rest is better for muscle strains. A core-strengthening exercise may help to prevent pulled muscles.

OVERVIEW

What is an abdominal muscle strain? (pulled stomach muscle).

An abdominal muscle strain is when the stomach muscles are stretched or torn. Both an abdominal muscle strain or pulled stomach muscle can occur.

What are the abdominal muscles?

The musculoskeletal includes the stomach (or stomach) muscles. These muscles are located between the pelvis ribs and the head and support the trunk (midsection) and organs and allow you to move.

Your core muscles, which support and stabilize your spine, are your abdominal and back muscles. These muscles work together to allow you to stand, walk, exercise and do other things.

The abdominal muscles are made up of several muscle groups:

  • Oblique muscles contract to rotate your body (trunk).
  • Rectus Abdominus muscles allow for movement between the pelvis and ribcage.
  • The deepest abdominal muscles are the transverse abdominous muscle. They stabilize the trunk and protect the organs.

What are the causes of abdominal muscle strains (pulled stomach muscle)?

Any abdominal muscle can be affected by a strain of the abdominal muscles. There are several possible causes of abdominal muscle strains.

  • Left side abdominal strain.
  • Right side abdominal strain
  • Lower abdominal strain
  • Upper abdominal strain

What is the difference between a pulled stomach muscle or a hernia?

Hernias are when an organ pushes through weak spots in a muscle. They are usually found in the groin area, which is between the upper thigh and the abdomen. A strain of the abdominal muscles can cause a hernia.

Both a hernia and a pulled stomach muscle may cause abdominal pain. A hernia can cause an abdominal lump or bulge, ache or hurt. A hernia may also cause constipation, nausea or vomiting (abdominal problems don’t cause these issues). Although a hernia can’t be cured, abdominal muscle strain will improve with time.

SYMPTOMS & CAUSES

What causes a strain in the abdominal muscles (pulled stomach muscle).

Overuse injuries can lead to a pulled stomach muscle. The muscle can tear or stretch if subjected to repetitive movements, such as in sports or other activities.

There are also other causes:

  • Accidents such as falls and motor vehicle accidents.
  • Constant coughing or sneezing.
  • Exercising too hard or too often.
  • Lifting heavy objects.
  • Poor form while playing sports or exercising.
  • Sudden twisting.

Are you at high risk of developing a pulled stomach muscle (abdominal muscle strain)?

Although anyone can pull a stomach muscle from their stomach, certain activities may increase your risk. This problem is more common in people who engage in sports such as tennis and football that involve a lot of reaching and side to side trunk movements.

What are the symptoms of a pulled stomach muscle (abdominal muscle strain)?

Abdominal pain and Musculoskeletal pain can be signs of an abdominal strain. This pain can occur when you:

  • Sneezing, coughing, or laughing.
  • Sprinting or doing vigorous exercise.
  • After a long period of inactivity or sitting, get up.

Some other symptoms include:

  • Bruising.
  • Muscle spasms or stiff muscles.
  • Swelling.

DIAGNOSIS AND TEST

How is abdominal muscle strain (pulled stomach muscles) diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider can diagnose a pulled stomach muscle based on your symptoms and a physical examination. You may be eligible for:

  • Xrays to examine for ribcage injuryspine fractures and other broken bones.

MANAGEMENT & TREATMENT

How can abdominal muscle strains (pulled stomach muscle) be managed?

Rest is a good thing for abdominal muscle strains. These steps can help:

  • Alternate between warm compresses and applying ice to the area.
  • For stretching and strengthening exercises, meet with a physical therapist.
  • To ease inflammation and pain, take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
  • To support your stomach muscles and reduce swelling, wear an abdominal brace.

PREVENTION

How do I prevent a pulled stomach muscle (a strain of the abdominal muscles)?

You can reduce your chances of pulling a stomach muscle by giving your abdominal muscles time to rest after performing certain activities. You can also:

  • For heavy lifting, ask for assistance.
  • You can do yoga, Pilates, or any other exercise to stretch your abdominal muscles.
  • Planks and other core exercises can help strengthen your abdominal muscles.
  • Before you engage in vigorous exercise, warm-up and do some cool-down activities.

 

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