Exercises for Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain is incredibly common and it is rarely serious. However, if you’ve recently suffered an injury, or if the pain is long-lasting, particularly intense or otherwise of concern, you should speak to a medical professional. We can help you determine the cause of the problem, as well as what will be the best form of treatment for your particular abdominal pain. One form of treatment used for particular types of abdominal pain is physical therapy, which can take the form of exercises you can do at home. Here are some exercises that may aid in your recovery from abdominal pain.
The Pelvic Tilt
The pelvic tilt exercise involves rather minimal movement, but is designed to strengthen your abdominal muscles. You first lie on your back with bent knees, and then tighten your stomach muscles by pulling inward. You then press your lower back against the floor, and hold that position for six seconds. You will then relax your muscles, and repeat the exercise eight to twelve times. You can often find examples of these exercises on YouTube.
The Tummy Tuck
The tummy tuck is a slightly more involved exercise, but the strengthening results are worth the effort. You first lie on your back with bent knees, and place two fingers on your pelvis, just inside your hip bones, and take in a deep breath. Your fingers will allow you to feel your muscles as you breathe. You will then breathe out, pulling in your abdominal muscles, tightening them – hold this position for about six seconds, but continue breathing. Relax the muscles for up to ten seconds, then repeat the exercise eight to twelve times. This exercise can be repeated several times a day, and you can practice while standing, as well.
The Curl Up
Again, lie on your back with your knees bent, this time keeping your feet flat to the floor. Place your hands to your sides before lifting your head and shoulders up. Then, raise your arms to around where your thighs are, and hold this position for six seconds. Relax, then start over, repeating this exercise eight to twelve times.
The Diagonal Curl Up
Lie on the floor with your knees bent, and your feet flat to the floor. Place your hands to your sides and lift up your head and shoulders – as you do, reach both arms to one side, and hold this for six seconds. Relax, start over and repeat eight to twelve times on the same side before doing the same exercise for the other side of your body. This allows you to work the same muscles on both sides, allowing for equal strengthening throughout your core and the other muscles you are working with this exercise.
If you are suffering from abdominal pain, call the Maryland Pain and Wellness Center today so that we can help determine the cause of your pain, and then come up with a treatment regimen that fits your needs, including potential exercise options.