What causes an abdominal muscle strain (pulled stomach muscle)?

What causes an abdominal muscle strain (pulled stomach muscle)?

A pulled stomach muscle is often an overuse injury. Repetitive movements, usually in sports or other physical activity, cause the muscle to stretch or tear.

Other causes include:

• Accidents, such as falls or motor vehicle wrecks.
• Chronic coughing or sneezing.
• Intense or excessive exercise.
• Lifting heavy objects.
• Poor form when playing sports or exercising.
• Sudden twisting.