Words matter. Images matter. The Scientific Inquirer needs your support. Help us pay our contributors for their hard work. Visit our Patreon page and discover ways that you can make a difference. http://bit.ly/2jjiagi
Condition
The obliques run across the abdomen between the lowest ribs and the pelvis. They belong to the collection of abdominal muscles and are divided into internal and external obliques. Their location provides the coiling-uncoiling power the rotation of the torso that’s central to generating power in sound pitching motions as well as hitting. Anatomically the obliques also serve a critical function of stabilizing the torso and pelvis as a tandem.
In general, strains occur whenever a given muscle is stretched past its normal range. Trauma can range from microscopic tears to complete ruptured from the bone. On rare occasions, the pulled muscle can take a tiny piece of bone with it, a condition called an avulsion fracture.
Symptoms
An oblique strain can range from considerable discomfort to a sharp nearly debilitating (though temporary) pain when the muscle is used. Acute pain can also be felt around the rib cage. Movement can result in varying degrees of discomfort.
Diagnosis
As with most injuries and other muscle tears, a proper diagnosis should be made by a doctor.
Treatment
For most oblique strains, any combination of anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or paracetamol/acetaminophen, warm/cold compress, and sometimes a brace can be used. Most importantly, the affected area should be allowed to rest and heal completely. Normally, the recuperation period lasts for a few weeks.
IMAGE SOURCE: Tampa Bay Times