A belly muscle injury generally refers to a strain of your abdominal muscles. Abdominal strains vary in severity and while athletes may be more likely to suffer one, they can happen to anyone. Belly muscle injuries typically occur in the rectus abdominis, which runs down the front of your stomach, or the obliques, which run down each side.
Features
Your belly muscle injury will typically be classified as either a first, second or third degree strain. A first degree abdominal strain means you have damaged a few muscle fibers. A second degree strain is a little more severe, with a larger amount of damage. A third degree strain means you have completely torn some portion of your abdominal muscles. A hernia is another type of belly muscle injury that can result in the contents of your belly bulging out through a tear in the muscle. Trauma that you suffer from blunt force, such as a car accident, can also injure your abdominal muscles.
Causes
Abdominal strains of all degrees are often the result of a sports movement of some type. Those who participate in gymnastics, rowing, weight lifting and other sports that use fast whole body moves with twisting are most susceptible. If you fail to warm up properly before your event or sport, you increase your chances of straining any muscle, including your abdominals. It is also important to use proper mechanics to reduce the likelihood of belly muscle injury.
Symptoms
Symptoms of an abdominal injury vary, depending on the severity. You may notice mild symptoms, such as stiffness or light bruising or difficulty getting up from lying down. If the injury is more serious, you may feel a sharp, searing pain with complete muscle weakness and lack of mobility.
Considerations
Keeping your abdominals toned, strong and flexible is your best bet to avoid injury. It is also important not to overdo exercise and work within your limitations. If you suspect you have an abdominal muscle injury, rest the area, apply ice and visit your doctor. He may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication or even surgery if the muscles are completely torn.
