Abdominal
Strain & Football

What
is Abdominal Strain?
Abdominal strain is a muscle tear which stems
from extreme stretching beyond its natural capabilities. If
flexing or twisting is done beyond the limit of the abdominal
body parts involved, it results in strains. Usually, athletes
experience stomach muscle strain leading to pain during sport
activities. However, doing stomach exercises can also lead
to abdominal strain sometimes. Abdominal strain injury is
categorized according to its severity as first, second or
third degree.
Signs
and Symptoms of Abdominal Strain
First degree abdominal strain involves the damage
of a few muscle fibres. Signs and symptoms are not evident
unless the muscles are stretched or contracted. The affected
individual will usually experience mild to moderate tightness
or cramps in the midsection after the activity that caused
the damage is over.
Second degree abdominal strain involves the
damage of more muscle fibres. In this category, the individual
feels pain when the muscles are stretched, contracted or touched.
Pain experience can range from mild to moderate.
Third degree abdominal strain results from the rupture of
the abdominal muscle completely. Pain is severe and the individual
cannot move without experiencing pain. The damaged muscles
may also be herniated as evidenced by bruising or internal
tissue bleeding.
Treatment
During the occurrence of abdominal strain injury,
it is important to immediately place an ice pack on the muscle
to relieve pain and minimize tissue bleeding. Make sure that
ice is wrapped before directly placing on to the skin to avoid
burns. Injured individuals should rest in order to avoid further
muscle damage. It is advised that first degree patients rest
for 3 weeks, second degree patients for 4 to 6 weeks and third
degree patients for 3 months or more.

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It is important to consult a doctor to have
a thorough assessment and diagnosis of the injury. Third degree
abdominal strain sufferers may have to undergo surgical operation
to repair the torn muscle.
Prevention
Tips
It is recommended to do thorough warm up exercises
for twenty minutes. Warming up will increase muscle temperature
to make it more stretchable as well as improve concentration
for the following exercise.
Core strength exercises are very useful since these improve
movement, strength and flexibility. A Swiss Ball is a great
tool when doing abdominal exercises.

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Regularly exercising the abdominal muscles will
increase strength and stability which prevents injury from
sports-related activities. Also, cooling down for five to
ten minutes and stretching will help muscles heal faster.
People should also increase carbohydrate intake and keep hydrated
to keep their muscles energized. Foods like rice, pasta and
oatmeal as well as energy drinks and fruit juices are great
sources of carbohydrates.
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