While performing regular exercise carries many benefits when it comes to improving strength, fitness and health, there are risks involved. A common condition experienced by some trainees after exercising is lower abdominal pain. This can be caused by a number of factors, and it is important to know the correct treatment, as well as the causes, if you don't wish for it to happen again.
Muscle strain
It is possible to sustain a lower abdominal strain during exercises targeting that area. Strains are tears in the muscle and can range in severity from very small tears in just a few fibers to a complete rupture of the entire muscle. Warm up properly to prevent such strains, and avoid exercising at too high an intensity before you're ready. If you do experience a strain, rest the area and apply ice treatment.
Hernia
An abdominal hernia is a more serious injury than a muscle tear. You will notice a swelling in the area, which is usually accompanied by pain. Hernias occur when there is a weakness in the abdominal wall and the contents of the abdominal cavity start to bulge out. Exercise increases the intra-abdominal pressure, which can exacerbate the hernia and push it out further. If you believe you are suffering from a hernia, seek medical assistance immediately. Surgery may be necessary to rectify the problem. If left untreated, hernias can cause further pain and health issues.
Cramping
Cramps can occur in any muscle in the body and can happen for a number of reasons, including dehydration, insufficient minerals in the blood and nerve compression. Lower abdominal cramps post-exercise are most likely caused by an excessive tightness in the muscles caused by repetitive exercises such as situps and crunches, or holding a certain position for a long time, like in a plank exercise. To avoid cramping, ensure that you are adequately hydrated and reduce the amount of abdominal training you do. Remember that quality is much more important than quantity.
Appendicitis
Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix and usually leads to its removal through a procedure called an appendectomy. The appendix is a pouch that attaches to the large intestine and sits below the abdomen. Its removal does not cause any health complications. The pain will occur in the lower abdomen and may be mild at first, but can worsen over time and will be distinctly worse after exercising. Other symptoms may include a loss of appetite, diarrhea, nausea and constipation. If your symptoms are in line with that of appendicitis, see a physician at the earliest opportunity.
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