What is an oblique injury?

An oblique injury refers to a strain or tear of the oblique muscles, which are located on the sides of your abdomen. These muscles are responsible for rotating and bending the trunk.

• Causes: Oblique injuries typically occur due to sudden twisting motions, overstretching, or direct impact. Common culprits include sports that involve repetitive twisting (like baseball, golf, or tennis), heavy lifting with improper form, and forceful coughing or sneezing. You can read about causes from here.

• Symptoms: Common symptoms include sharp pain in the side of the abdomen, which may worsen with movement, coughing, or deep breathing. Other symptoms can include stiffness, tenderness to the touch, muscle spasms, and sometimes bruising. For more about symptoms, see this.

• Diagnosis: Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination by a doctor. They will assess your range of motion and palpate the area to identify the source of pain. In some cases, imaging tests like an MRI or ultrasound may be ordered to rule out other conditions or assess the severity of the injury. Read about diagnosing from this.

• Treatment: Treatment typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain. Physical therapy may be recommended to improve range of motion, strength, and flexibility. In rare cases, surgery may be necessary for severe tears. Learn more about treating oblique injury from here.

• Prevention: Preventing oblique injuries involves proper warm-up and stretching before exercise, using correct lifting techniques, and strengthening the core muscles. You can learn about how to prevent the injury from here.