An abdominal strain can be just as uncomfortable as it is painful. And for that reason, it’s natural to want to find relief as quickly as possible.
What works for you may not work for the next person, and vice versa, but there are a variety of treatment options you can experiment with.
• Cold therapy: Place an ice pack directly on the injured area. This can help reduce swelling and pain. Do this several times per day, at 15 to 20 minute intervals.
• Heat therapy: By increasing blood flow to the area, you can relieve tension in the injured muscle. Apply a heating pad directly to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes at a time.
• Compression: It sounds strange for an abdominal strain, but it can provide the relief you’re seeking. For example, use a bandage or abdominal binder to apply pressure to the area.
This can minimize your movement while preventing swelling.
And of course, along with the above, get as much rest as you can. If you continue to put strain on your muscle, it’ll take longer to heal. Not to mention the fact that you also increase the risk of additional injury.
Jennifer Ferdinand, owner of Serendipity Wellness Studio in Burke, VA, has been practicing massage therapy and esthetics since 2006. She is nationally certified through NCBTMB, and licensed in Virginia for both Massage Therapy and Esthetics.