What to Know About Abdominal Muscle Strain

An abdominal muscle strain happens when the fibres of the abdominal muscles tear, commonly caused by sudden movements, heavy lifting, or vigorous exercise. Signs include sharp pain, swelling, bruising, muscle spasms, and trouble moving. Immediate care follows the P.R.I.C.E. principle: Protection, Rest, Icing, Compression, and Elevation. An ice pack for 20 minutes every few hours alleviates swelling and discomfort. As healing progresses, exercise physiotherapy, such as pelvic tilts and gentle stretches, to rebuild strength and flexibility. Seek advice from a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and customised treatment plan.
 

What are the signs of a pulled stomach or abdominal muscle?  

An abdominal muscle strain happens when your muscles are stretched or torn. It can be mild, moderate, or severe. In a mild strain (first-degree), the muscle is slightly stretched. You may feel some pain, swelling, or discomfort when moving, coughing, or sneezing. A moderate strain (second-degree) is more painful and may involve a partial tear in the muscle. Symptoms can include sudden pain, swelling, tenderness, or bruising. A severe strain (third-degree) is the worst. The muscle tears completely, causing severe pain, swelling, and bruising. You may also feel nauseous, sweaty, or have trouble breathing. If you have any of these symptoms, it’s best to visit a physiotherapist near me. Here are 10 signs that show you need a physiotherapist now!
 

Symptoms of a pulled stomach muscle in females  

Symptoms of a pulled stomach muscle in females or an abdominal strain can show symptoms similar to those experienced by males. However, specific points may be to consider due to anatomical differences or related conditions like menstruation or pregnancy. Here are the common symptoms:

1. Sharp or throbbing pain: This is frequently the main symptom. The pain may be concentrated at the location of the strain and can worsen with movements that extend or further stress the muscle, such as twisting the body, bending, or laughing.  

2. Swelling and bruising: Depending on the severity of the strain, the abdominal region may experience noticeable swelling or bruising.  

3. Muscle spasms: The affected muscle might occasionally spasm, resulting in sudden and intense pain that temporarily increases.  

4. Reduced mobility: The discomfort and pain can make performing everyday activities such as standing upright, walking, or bending challenging.  

5. Tenderness: The region over the strained muscle may feel sensitive to the touch, and this sensitivity may be heightened during specific movements or even while at rest.  

For women, these symptoms might be complicated by or confused with gynaecological problems or pregnancy-related issues, so it's crucial to seek a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and suitable treatment.  
 

Can you still exercise with a torn abdominal or pulled stomach muscle?  

In the case of a painful abdominal strain that requires medical attention, avoiding engaging in any sports activities that worsen the symptoms is essential. With the support and guidance of a physiotherapist, as recovery progresses through various stages, these exercises can be performed under supervision:  

• The Cobra is a yoga pose recognised by medical professionals for stretching abdominal muscles. This pose is performed by lying on the stomach with hands placed directly under the shoulders and elbows tucked close to the sides. Taking a couple of deep breaths is advised. After exhaling, the individual elevates themselves with their hands, lifting their shoulders off the ground while keeping the hips and legs in contact with the floor. Maintaining relaxation in the back, glutes, and legs, this position is held for 20 seconds. It is repeated three times, twice daily, to alleviate the symptoms sufficiently.  
• The alternating leg raise exercise, performed while lying on the back against the floor, strengthens the lower abdominal and stomach muscles. Each leg is raised alternately for 10 repetitions.  
• Once pelvic tilts become more manageable, the dead bug is a beneficial exercise that strengthens the core abdominal muscles.  
   

Rehabilitation exercises for abdominal muscle strain  

Rehabilitation exercises for abdominal muscle strains facilitate recovery, bolster the abdominal muscles, and help prevent future injuries. Here's a general outline of exercises that may be suggested during recovery from such a strain:  

1. Pelvic Tilts:  

This gentle movement aids in strengthening the lower abdominal muscles and stabilising the spine.  

Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.  

Engage your abdominal muscles and press your lower back into the ground.  

Hold for several seconds, then relax.  

2. Bridge:  

The bridge exercise focuses on the lower back and abdominal muscles.  

Lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the floor, positioned hip-width apart.  

Lift your hips to form a straight line from your knees to your shoulders.  

Hold for a few seconds, and then slowly lower your hips back down to the floor.  

3. Heel Slides:  

Heel slides effectively engage the core without putting too much strain on it.  

Lie on your back with your knees bent.  

Gradually straighten one leg, sliding the heel along the floor before returning to the starting position.  

Repeat with the other leg.  

4. Standing Bicycle Crunches:  

This exercise puts less stress on the spine compared to traditional crunches.  

Stand with your feet hip-width apart.  

Place your hands behind your head and raise one knee while twisting the opposite elbow to meet it.  
 

How to avoid abdominal muscle strain?  

• Taking proactive health measures to prevent painful abdominal strains is preferable. Recurring abdominal injuries can result in future medical issues. When engaging in physical activities, keep the following points in mind:
• It’s essential to warm up and stretch before starting any sport or exercise such as yoga.  
• Always cool down after your workout.  
• Be sure to warm up and stretch before any athletic activity.  
• When beginning a new fitness program, start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration.  
• Core workouts such as the bridge and side plank can enhance strength and flexibility. These exercises require no special equipment and can be adjusted in difficulty as you progress.

General suggestions:  

• Bend your knees and hips while lowering and keeping your back straight to lift heavy objects.  
• Maintain proper posture while sitting and standing. Regularly check your posture throughout the day.  
• If you need to sit for long stretches, take breaks and move around regularly.
   

How to address an abdominal muscle strain?  

It is crucial to address an abdominal strain or pulled stomach muscle promptly. The immediate medical approach for symptoms follows the P.R.I.C.E. principle: Protection, Rest, Icing, Compression, and Elevation.

During the first few days after the injury, it is essential to use an ice pack for twenty minutes every two hours. This helps reduce swelling and minimise potential health complications. Until the pain subsides, avoid activities or sports that exacerbate the pain or injury to the abdominal muscles.

Wrapping the abdomen with an elastic bandage keeps the strained muscles under slight tension, aiding in lymphatic drainage and reducing inflammation. 

In the second week, isometric exercises are recommended, which involve contracting a muscle while keeping the associated joints still. This practice strengthens the muscle and builds its endurance.

The individual should lie on their back with knees bent and feet flat on the floor. They should press their lower back against the floor while simultaneously contracting all abdominal muscles. This position should be held for 10 seconds and then released. Repeat this ten times. After healing, the individual can advance to concentric muscle exercises under the guidance of a professional.

Curl-up and diagonal curl-up exercises can be performed in the same lying position with knees bent. The arms are extended at a 45-degree angle, parallel to the thighs. The abdominal muscles are engaged, lifting the head and shoulders off the ground (and towards each side in a diagonal curl-up) without straining the neck. Hold this position for 5 seconds before releasing. Repeat this 12 times. Other treatment options may include hydrotherapy, soft tissue therapy, and postural adjustments.
 

Can a stomach strain result in long-term effects?  

Yes, if a stomach muscle strain is ignored, it can lead to ongoing pain, slower recovery, and even tendonitis. It might also limit your ability to move or perform activities that need strength. The long-term effects depend on how severe the strain is:

• Mild to moderate strains (Grade 1 & 2) usually heal well with rest and a proper physiotherapy plan.
• Severe strains (Grade 3) might need surgery, but starting physiotherapy before and after surgery can speed up recovery.

If you're facing discomfort, don't wait. Search for a physiotherapist near me to start healing the right way.
 

Treatment services for abdominal strains at TruePal  

The physiotherapists at TruePal implement exercise regimens designed to help patients resume everyday tasks and promote a healthy, active lifestyle. The skilled and knowledgeable physical therapists also incorporate various techniques, such as electrical nerve stimulation, heat therapy, and ultrasound therapy, based on the individual patient's needs, the intensity of their symptoms, and the level of discomfort they are experiencing.
 

FAQ  

1. What sensations are associated with a pulled abdominal muscle?  

A pulled abdominal muscle may feel tender and painful and can limit your range of motion. You might also notice spasms, bruising, or heightened sensitivity in the area.  

2. What is the best way to care for a pulled abdominal muscle?  

The most effective treatment for a pulled abdominal muscle is rest. Avoid any physical activities that could aggravate the injury. Additionally, you can apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to your abdomen for at least 20 minutes, repeating this process 2-3 times daily.  

3. How can you identify if you've pulled a stomach muscle?  

You can recognise a pulled abdominal muscle by observing signs such as:  

- Tenderness or soreness  

- Swelling  

- Limited mobility  

- Bruising  

- Muscle spasms  

- Pain  

4. What is the healing time for a pulled muscle in the stomach?  

An abdominal muscle strain is an overuse injury characterised by a stretch or tear of the muscles. It is frequent among athletes or those who participate in high-intensity activities. A mild strain can heal within a few weeks with consistent physiotherapy, while a more severe strain may require 4 to 6 weeks for complete recovery.