Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Abdomial Strain
What is an abdominal strain?
There are four main abdominal muscles: the rectus abdominis (commonly referred to as the 'six-pack'), the external and internal obliques on each side of the abdomen, and the deep transverse abdominis. An abdominal strain occurs when there is a tear in the fibres of any of these muscles. Physiotherapy plays a key role in the effective recovery and rehabilitation following an abdominal strain.
How does an abdominal strain occur?
An abdominal strain can occur during activities that place excessive stress on the abdominal muscles, such as sit-ups or strong twisting movements. It can also result from forceful or repeated bouts of coughing or sneezing, which increase pressure on the abdominal muscles and may lead to overstretching or tearing.
There are different grades of abdominal strains depending on the severity of the injury:
Grade 1 (Mild): A small number of muscle fibers are overstretched or torn. Symptoms may include mild discomfort, slight swelling, and minimal loss of strength or movement. Daily activities can usually continue, though certain movements may cause pain.
Grade 2 (Moderate): A larger portion of the muscle is torn, leading to more noticeable pain, swelling, bruising, and reduced strength or mobility. Activities involving the core may be difficult or painful.
Grade 3 (Severe): A complete tear or rupture of the muscle. This results in severe pain, significant swelling and bruising, and a major loss of function. In some cases, surgical intervention may be required.
What are the symptoms of an abdominal strain?
The main symptom of an abdominal strain is pain, which can vary in severity depending on the grade of the injury. The affected area may also be tender to touch, and localised inflammation is often present. In more severe strains, bleeding within the tissues may occur, leading to visible bruising. Movements that engage the abdominal muscles — such as sitting up, twisting, or prolonged standing — are likely to be difficult and painful.
- Muscle stiffness or tightness in the abdominal region
- Swelling or tenderness over the injured area
- Sharp or stabbing pain during sudden movements or coughing/sneezing
- Difficulty bending or lifting objects
- Weakness or inability to contract the abdominal muscles fully
What should I do if I have an abdominal strain?
If you suspect an abdominal strain, it’s important to consult a physiotherapist as soon as possible. In the meantime, applying crushed ice wrapped in a damp towel to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and ease pain.
Physiotherapy treatment for an abdominal strain.
There are many physiotherapy options available to treat abdominal strains. These may include cryotherapy (ice application), electrotherapy techniques such as ultrasound, and a personalised, graduated exercise programme aimed at restoring strength and flexibility.
- Manual therapy to reduce muscle tightness and improve mobility
- Core stability exercises to restore strength and function
- Postural correction to reduce strain on the abdominal muscles
- Education and advice on activity modification and safe return to exercise
What shouldn’t I do if I have an abdominal strain?
If you think you may have an abdominal strain, it is important to stop any activities that aggravate your symptoms. Ignoring the pain may worsen the injury and make recovery more difficult and prolonged.
Could there be any long-term effects from an abdominal strain?
Grades one and two abdominal strains typically heal well with a structured physiotherapy programme and adequate rest from aggravating activities. Grade three strains, which involve a complete rupture, may require surgical intervention. However, physiotherapy remains essential both before and after surgery to optimise healing, restore function, and support a full recovery.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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