A pulled abdominal muscle is an overuse injury that often happens in sports or when lifting something heavy.
The muscle is stretched too far, causing tiny, microscopic tears.
It’s also known as an abdominal muscle strain or pulled stomach muscle.
Verywell / Emily Roberts
Symptoms include abdominal pain, muscle spasms, and weakness.
The initial treatment includes rest and ice, followed by gentle exercise.
In some cases, physical therapy may be needed.
A strain in these muscles can cause pain when you move in various directions.
Among athletes, pulled abs are a common sports injury in baseball, hockey, and soccer.
Poor conditioning or an imbalance in core muscle strength can make you more vulnerable to abdominal muscle strain.
Research shows a size difference between the right and left rectus abdominis increases the strain risk.
You may be given anX-rayif they suspect that you have any broken bones in your rib cage.
Appendicitis pain, however, starts suddenly without an apparent cause and worsens in hours.
However, a pulled ab muscle or sports hernia can lead to an inguinal hernia.
Treatment
Treatment for a pulled muscle typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation.
However, treating an ab muscle strain is a little trickier.
There’s no way to splint it, and it’s nearly impossible to rest your abs fully.
Listen to your body’s cues; avoid movements that cause pain, and don’t overdo it.
Once the pain has resolved, you’re able to slowly return to exercise.
It may help to apply moist heat before exercising to loosen the muscle.
Apply ice after exercise to reduce inflammation and ease post-exercise soreness.
Sometimes, a pulled abdominal muscle requires physical therapy or surgery toheal fully.
How Long Does It Take for a Pulled Ab Muscle to Heal?
When to See a Healthcare Provider
Physicians andphysical therapistscan recommend treatments that may speed your recovery.
It’s often sparked by a sports injury, overuse, or poor muscle conditioning.
Abdominal muscle strains usually resolve with at-home care.
A mild strain should heal in a week or two, but more severe strains can take several months.
Physical therapy or surgery may sometimes be needed.
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American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Sports hernia (athletic pubalgia).
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U.S. National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus.Strains.
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