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Abdominal Strain: Rehab Exercises

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Introduction

Here are some examples of exercises for you to try. The exercises may be suggested for a condition or for rehabilitation. Start each exercise slowly. Ease off the exercises if you start to have pain.

You will be told when to start these exercises and which ones will work best for you.

How to do the exercises

Pelvic tilt

slide 1 of 3
slide 1 of 3, Pelvic tilt,
  1. Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor.
  2. Tighten your belly muscles by pulling your belly button in toward your spine. Press your lower back to the floor. You should feel your hips and pelvis rock back.
  3. Hold for about 6 seconds while breathing smoothly, and then relax.
  4. Repeat 8 to 12 times.

Curl-up (arms extended)

slide 2 of 3
slide 2 of 3, Curl-up (arms extended),
  1. Lie on your back with your knees bent, feet resting on the floor. Keep your arms at your sides.
  2. Slowly tighten your belly muscles and raise your head and shoulder blades off the floor. At the same time, raise your arms to about thigh level.
  3. Keep your neck straight and do not press your chin to your chest.
  4. Hold for 1 or 2 seconds. Then slowly lower yourself back to the floor.
  5. Repeat 8 to 12 times.

Diagonal curl-up (arms extended)

slide 3 of 3
slide 3 of 3, Diagonal curl-up (arms extended),
  1. Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Your arms can rest at your sides.
  2. Slowly tighten your belly muscles and raise your head and shoulder blades off the floor. At the same time, reach to one side with both arms. Keep breathing normally and don't hold your breath.
  3. Keep your neck straight and don't press your chin to your chest.
  4. Hold for 1 to 2 seconds. Then slowly lower yourself back to the floor.
  5. Repeat 8 to 12 times.
  6. Repeat these steps, reaching to your other side.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.