Physiotherapy for Oblique Muscle Strain

What Is an Oblique Muscle?

The term "oblique muscles" refers to an array of abdominal muscles on the sides. There are two sets of oblique muscles: the external obliques and the internal obliques. The external obliques are the larger and more superficial muscles, while the internal obliques are deeper. These muscles play a crucial role in various movements of the trunk, including rotation and lateral flexion. They also contribute to core stability and support. Strengthening and conditioning the oblique muscles can be beneficial for posture, athletic performance, and overall abdominal strength.

What Does Oblique Muscle Strain Mean?

An oblique muscle strain refers to an injury or tearing of the oblique muscles, specifically the external or internal obliques. This type of strain commonly occurs during activities that involve twisting or rotational movements of the trunk, such as swinging a golf club, throwing a baseball, or performing certain exercises.

Oblique muscle strains can affect athletes involved in sports that require twisting motions or sudden changes in direction, such as baseball, tennis, soccer, or golf. However, anyone engaging in activities that put stress on the oblique muscles can potentially experience an oblique muscle strain. This includes activities like lifting heavy objects, performing vigorous workouts, or even sudden movements during everyday tasks.

What Are the Symptoms of Oblique Muscle Strain?

Symptoms of an oblique muscle strain may include:

• Pain or tenderness in the affected area.

• Swelling.

• Bruising.

• Difficulty with certain movements or activities.

• Popping or tearing sensation at the time of injury.

If you suspect you have an oblique muscle strain, for a precise diagnosis and the best course of therapy, it is advised to speak with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or physical therapist. They can provide guidance on rest, pain management, rehabilitation exercises, and a gradual return to activity.

How Is Oblique Muscle Strain Managed?

Physiotherapy can help manage oblique muscle strains by reducing pain, restoring range of motion, and strengthening the affected muscles. The following are some physiotherapeutic management strategies for oblique muscle strain:

1. Rest And Ice: Initially, rest and ice can help reduce pain and inflammation. The physiotherapist may advise the patient to avoid activities that aggravate the strain and apply ice to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes every few hours.

2. Manual Therapy: Manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue massage, myofascial release, and joint mobilization can help improve circulation and flexibility in the affected area, reducing pain and stiffness.

3. Stretching and Range of Motion Exercises: The physiotherapist may prescribe stretching and range of motion exercises to improve flexibility and reduce muscle tightness. These exercises may include gentle twisting, bending, and stretching movements that gradually increase in intensity.

4. Strengthening Exercises: Once pain and inflammation have subsided, the physiotherapist may prescribe specific strengthening exercises to target the oblique muscles and surrounding muscles. These exercises may include side planks, wood chops, and Russian twists.

5. Postural Correction: The physiotherapist may also work with the patient to correct postural imbalances that may have contributed to the oblique muscle strain. This may include exercises to improve core stability and alignment.

6. Gradual Return to Activity: Once the patient has regained strength and range of motion, the physiotherapist may advise a gradual return to activity, starting with low-intensity exercises and gradually increasing intensity and duration over time.

What Not to Do With Oblique Muscle Strain?

When dealing with an oblique muscle strain, there are certain things that should avoid to prevent further injury or complications. Here are some things that one should not do with an oblique muscle strain:

• Avoid Sudden Movements: Sudden movements such as twisting or turning can worsen the oblique muscle strain. You should avoid any movements that cause pain or discomfort.

• Do not Ignore Pain: Pain is the body's way of telling that something is wrong. If one experience pain in the oblique muscles, it's important to rest and seek medical attention as soon as possible. Ignoring the pain could result in further harm and increase the length of the rehabilitation.

• Do not Engage In Strenuous Activities: Engaging in strenuous activities such as lifting heavy weights or playing intense sports can put additional strain on your oblique muscles. One should avoid these activities until the muscles have fully healed.

• Avoid Poor Posture: Poor posture can put additional strain on your oblique muscles. Ensure to maintain good posture during daily activities such as sitting, standing, and walking.

• Do not Apply Heat During The Acute Phase: Applying heat to the affected area during the acute phase of the injury can increase inflammation and delay the healing process. Instead, use ice to reduce inflammation and pain.

• Do not Self-Diagnose: It's important to seek medical attention if one suspect that they have an oblique muscle strain. Self-diagnosis and treatment can lead to further injury and delay your recovery.

How to Prevent Oblique Muscle Strain?

• Warm Up Properly Before Physical Activity: A proper warm-up routine can help prepare the muscles for physical activity and reduce the risk of muscle strain.

• Strengthen Core Muscles: Strong core muscles can help support and stabilize the spine, reducing the risk of oblique muscle strain.

• Maintain Good Posture: Good posture can help prevent muscle strain by distributing the load evenly across the muscles.

• Stretch Regularly: Stretching can enhance flexibility and ease muscle tension, lowering the chance of muscle strain.

• Use Proper Lifting Techniques: When lifting heavy objects, use proper lifting techniques to avoid putting unnecessary strain on your muscles.

• Take Breaks During Physical Activity: If one is engaging in physical activity for an extended period of time, take breaks to rest and stretch your muscles.

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water can help keep the muscles hydrated and reduce the risk of muscle strain.

• Listen To the Body: If one feel pain or discomfort during physical activity, stop and rest to avoid further injury.

Conclusion:

Physiotherapy can effectively manage oblique muscle strains, reducing pain and improving mobility and function. A physiotherapist can collaborate with the patient to create a personalized treatment plan that takes into account their unique needs and objectives.

In general, paying attention to your body is crucial, and avoiding any actions that make you uncomfortable or in pain. Following the above-mentioned guidelines can help prevent further injury and promote faster recovery from an oblique muscle strain.