A torn abdominal muscle involves tearing of the supporting muscular fibers. This injury results to pain, inflammation and weakness and typically due to incorrect actions during workouts or when lifting heavy objects.
A doctor should be consulted if there is a need to fix a torn abdominal muscle. During the assessment, the doctor will determine the seriousness of the injury.
Steps in managing a torn abdominal muscle
- Apply an ice pack on the site of the torn abdominal muscle at 15-minute sessions at 3 times throughout the day. The cold temperature lessens the inflammation and assists in relieving the pain. An alternative is to massage the site using ice in a circular motion for 15 minutes at 3 times daily to hasten the healing process.
Apply an ice pack on the site of the torn abdominal muscle at 15-minute sessions at 3 times throughout the day. - The diet should be high in protein including fish, lean meats, cheese, poultry, milk and eggs. Remember that the muscle fibers are comprised of proteins. Increasing the intake of protein-rich foods is essential in the repair of muscles.
- Apply heat on the site of the torn abdominal muscle after 24 hours. It should only be used if comfortable. Stop using heat lamps or heating pads if there is discomfort or irritation of the skin occurs. The heat works by relaxing the muscles adjacent the injury to allow proper healing while at the same reducing the inflammation.
- The individual should stretch the muscles in a gradual manner once the inflammation and pain starts to settle. This is usually performed 1-2 weeks after the injury. Mild stretching while being aware of the pain limit can help restore muscular function as well as prevent scarring of the neighboring tissues.
- Avoid engaging in exercise or heavy lifting since these can worsen the injury and allow intestinal herniation to occur which requires surgery. Getting enough rest is a vital factor in improving the repair rate as well as hasten the healing process.
Disclaimer / More Information
The information posted on this page on a torn abdominal muscle is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn to care for the injury, register for first aid training at one of our training centers located throughout Canada. The training centers are in Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, Kelowna, Saskatoon, Victoria, Surrey, Mississauga, Winnipeg, Red Deer, Toronto, Ottawa and Halifax.