Sore stomach muscles are most often caused by working out, but they can have a number of causes apart from the exercise. These may include such diverse causes as a hernia, a desmoid tumor or pregnancy. You should seek medical advice if you are experiencing abdominal pain.
Muscle Anatomy
There are three main groups of abdominal muscles. These include the rectus abdominals,more commonly known as the "six pack." These muscles allow you to bend forward as in a crunch. The second group is the internal and external obliques. These enable you to perform twisting movements and bending to the side. The third group is comprised of the transverse abdominals; deep muscles that help to stabilize the back.
Hernia
If you are experiencing chronic abdominal pain that is not related to bowel function, eating or exercise but worsens when you are standing, sitting or lying, you may have a hernia. A hernia is a small bulge in the abdominal wall that becomes smaller when you are lying down. There are several types of abdominal hernia including the umbilical hernia and the spilgelian hernia, which occurs in the middle of the abdomen, and the epigastric hernia which occurs in the upper abdomen. Hernias can cause severe pain.
Desmoid Tumor
Though nor particularly common, a desmoid tumor can cause pain to the abdominal wall muscles. They are related to the growth of muscle fibers and nerve tissue. They are localized tumors that may destroy adjacent healthy tissue. The cause of this type of tumor is unknown and a biopsy is required to make a diagnosis. Desmoid tumors may be treated with surgery or radiation therapy.
Pregnancy
You may experience sore stomach muscles during the early stages of pregnancy. You may feel tender stomach muscles around 13 weeks. The discomfort may feel something like that which occurs after an intense workout. This feeling is related to your body growing to accommodate your baby. The soreness can be eased by gently massaging your stomach or taking a warm bath.
References
- American Family Physician: The Abdominal Wall: An Overlooked Source of Pain; S. Suliman et al.; August 1, 2001
- Desmoid Tumor Research Foundation: Desmoid Tumors
- Abs Exercise Advice: Abdominal Muscles; 2011
- Pregnancy Baby Care: Sore Abdominal Muscles During Pregnancy - Sore Abdominal Muscles in Pregnancy, Belly Conditions Remedies for Sore Abdominal Muscles During Pregnancy; 2005
