Abdominal quadriceps show the muscular layers of the abdominal wall. These abdominal muscles consist of fibers that are connected to different parts of the abdomen. Together, they participate in muscle performance and activities. The muscle layers in the abdominal quadricep are divided into four parts. They are named as
- Oblique Abdominis
- Transversus abdominis
- Rectus Abdominis
These abdominal muscles support and protect internal organs and facilitate other functions.Not only the abdomen, the muscles in abdominal quadricep also support pelvic area. Any injury, strain or infection in these abdominal muscles may lead to painful and debilitating conditions. Mostly athletes and sportsmen are an easy target of such injuries.
However, diagnosis and proper treatment can facilitate the patients to regain their normal health conditions.
Classification of Abdominal Quadricep Injuries?
Clinically, abdominal quadricep injuries are classified into three grades depending upon intensity of pain, physical examination and weakness . This grading system helps in guiding recovery and treatment regimen.
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Grade I
Grade I is a mild level of injuries and strains in abdominal quadricep muscles. At this stage, there is only pain and tenderness. While no weakness or limits in body movements are observed.
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Grade II
Grade II is a moderate level of muscle strains. At this point, tearing in muscle fibers, acute pain and slight reduction in strength is reported.
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Grade III
Grade III is the most severe level of strains that involves complete rupturing of muscles in abdominal quadrants. Complete separation of belly muscle tendons along with severe inflammation and discomfort leads to failure in performing functions.
However, these injuries may also be acute or chronic.
Location of Abdominal Quadricep Muscles
The abdominal quadricep muscles who get strains more often are located as follows
- Right side abdominal quadrant muscles
- Left side abdominal quadrant muscles
- Lower abdominal quadrant muscles
- Upper abdominal quadrant muscles
What are the Most Common Symptoms?
If you want to identify any abnormality in the abdominal quadrant muscles, these symptoms may be noticed.
- Feeling of tightness in abdomen area
- A lump os spasm at affected location
- Feeling twinge in abdominal area
- Sudden sharp pain
- Mild bruising
- Static muscle contraction
- Coughing or sneezing
- Abdominal pain after getting up from a prolonged sitting
- Muscle spasms
Who is at a Greater Risk?
Any person can get affected by the injuries in the abdominal quadrant area, however, those individuals who are involved in activities and sports like tennis and football are at greater risk. The reason is explained by the fact that such individuals involve their trunk area more as compared to others while playing sports.
Diagnosis
A doctor at a pain medicine clinic recommends physical examination and imaging tests to diagnose any injuries in abdominal quadrant muscles. After visual analysis, the doctors and healthcare experts will ask for following question
- How the injury or stain initiated
- Is it painful or discomfort free
- Any other infection accompanying the reported situation
- Is it happening without any visible injury
- Past medical history
- Family medical record
Furthermore, the imaging tests recommended in this condition are
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging
- CT Scan
These tests help to provide information about types, severity and prognosis of abdominal quadrant muscle injuries.Moreover, they also estimate injuries in ribcage, broken bones and spinal fractures.
Treatment and Management
Abdominal quadrant muscles get better by following these steps
- Applying ice pack or warm compression at the site of infected area
- Stretching and strengthening exercises recommended by a physical therapist
- Administration of Non-Steroidal anti in inflammatory medications to eliminate discomfort and swelling.
- Using abdominal braces that support stomach muscles and reduce inflammation
What are the Precautionary Measures?
Muscles in abdominal quadricep may be protected from strains and injuries by following some simple steps
- Seek assistance while lifting heavy objects
- Add some exercises including pilates, yoga or stretching movements in your daily routine.
- Strengthening core muscles by planks
- Adopt the habit of doing warm up exercises before doing any other physical activity.
When Should I Call Healthcare Help?
You can ask for a medical assistance if you are undergoing through following conditions
- Difficulty in mobility
- Severe pain leading to stressful sleep
- Indications of hernia
What Should I Expect from a Doctor?
While visiting a healthcare expert, there are a few points that must be kept in mind to ask the provider.
- What are possible underlying causes
- What is the best suitable treatment for me
- Can I prevent it in future
- Can I also attract other associated disorders
- Can I get involved in further complications?
Conclusion
Abdominal quadrants involve muscles, fibers and also protect the underlying organs of the body including stomach, liver, pancreas and intestines. A complete check up and examination of the abdominal quadrant is necessary to avoid severe complications and medical disasters that may be life threatening.
Expert medical opinion and treatment approach is recommended rather than applying any home remedies. This purpose can be achieved by consultation with licensed professionals at pain management Fort Worth.