Oblique muscles are considered either internal or external and are part of your overall abdominal muscles. Your obliques are outside your transverse abdominus, the muscles that run down the middle of your midsection. An oblique strain can occur from twisting or turning too forcefully and injuring these muscles. Abdominal strains are rated from grade 1 to 3, with 3 the most severe. There are several symptoms that could indicate you have an oblique strain. Seek medical attention if you think you may have any type of muscle strain.
Pain
No matter what degree of oblique strain you suffer, you are going to experience some pain. It could be a mild, stretching kind of feeling, or a searing, tearing type of pain. A strain can range from a few injured muscle fibers to quite a few injured fibers, to a complete rupture of the muscles. Your level of pain will give you an indication of the severity of the injury. Remember to consult your doctor if you experience oblique pain so you can begin the healing process and avoid further injury.
Weakness
You will likely experience a general oblique weakness with any degree of abdominal strain. Since the obliques are used for twisting movements and are used regularly in everyday life, muscle fatigue may catch up to you before too long.
Swelling and Bruising
Swelling and bruising can occur with a first- or second -degree oblique strain. The area may be tender to the touch, and you may notice some skin discoloration. It is wise to cease physical activity if you experience these symptoms until you have a clearer picture of how severe the strain really is.
Lack of Mobility
If you suffer a first-degree oblique strain, just a few muscle fibers are injured, according to the Better Health Channel. The symptoms of a first-degree strain are stiffness and lack of mobility in the general area of the injury. Twisting motions will become difficult to manage, and getting up and down from a chair or bed may be a little uncomfortable.
Bulging
According to MDguidelines.com, a third-degree abdominal strain means the muscle has torn completely. This can result in intestines or organs bulging through the muscles and protruding through your skin. You will likely experience a good deal of pain with this injury as well.
