Symptoms

• The symptoms of a pulled muscle can be tenderness or sharp pain in the abdominal area and increasing pain when the muscles are contracted.
  
  

Diagnosis

• An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), CAT scan and ultrasound may be used to diagnose a pulled muscle. Diagnosis may also be done with just a physical exam.
  
  

Treatment

• The initial treatment of a pulled abdominal muscle is the application of an ice pack and an anti-inflammatory pain medication. After two days heat can also be applied to the injury. The location should be wrapped to compress the injury which will aid in healing.
  
  

Returning to Normal Activities

• The return to normal duties should be started slowly after a few weeks up to a few months depending on the severity of the injury.
  
  

Prevention

• Pulled abdominal muscles can be prevented by lifting heavy objects properly by bending the knees and keeping the back straight. Having well toned abdominal muscles can help prevent exercise causing pulled muscles.