By Billie Jo Grieve, M.D., General Surgery
Not all abdominal pain is the same. A pulled muscle usually heals on its own with rest. A hernia requires medical care and won’t go away without treatment. Here’s how to know which one you have.
Pulled Abdominal Muscle: What to Expect
The one thing that tells you if it’s an abdominal strain or a hernia: look for a bulge. Stand in front of a mirror and cough or strain slightly. If you see a bulge on your abdomen or groin that wasn’t there before, it’s likely a hernia. No bulge? Probably a pulled muscle.
A muscle strain happens when fibers stretch or tear. You’ll feel sharp pain that worsens when you move, cough, or laugh. The area may be tender, but there’s no visible bulge.
What to do:
- Rest and avoid painful activities
- Ice for 15-20 minutes several times a day
- Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain
- Most heal within 1-3 weeks
Hernia: What You Need to Know
A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. Unlike a pulled muscle, a hernia creates an actual opening in the muscle wall. You’ll see or feel a bulge, especially when standing or straining.
Stand up and look at your abdomen or groin in a mirror. Cough or strain slightly. Do you see a bulge or lump that wasn’t there before? If yes, it’s likely a hernia. The bulge may flatten when you lie down.
Important: Hernias don’t heal on their own. If you suspect a hernia, see a doctor.
Can you have both a hernia and a strained muscle at the same time?
Yes. You can strain an abdominal muscle and develop a hernia from the same injury. The muscle strain may heal, but the hernia will remain.
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor soon if you:
- Notice a visible bulge
- Have pain that doesn’t improve after a week
- Experience pain that’s getting worse instead of better
- Have difficulty with normal activities
Seek emergency care if you experience:
- Sudden, severe abdominal pain
- Nausea, vomiting, or fever
- A bulge that becomes firm, red, or painful
These may indicate a strangulated hernia—a medical emergency where blood flow to trapped tissue is cut off.
Get checked if you’re unsure.
When in doubt, see a doctor. A simple exam can determine whether you have a pulled muscle or a hernia—and give you peace of mind. Call 320.634.5157 to schedule an appointment at Glacial Ridge Health System in Glenwood, Starbuck, or Brooten.