How To Avoid Enlargement Of Atrophied Rectis Abdominis Muscle?

Posted on Sun, 13 Jul 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 13 Jul 2014 Answered on

Sat, 9 Aug 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : i have an atrophied rectis abdominis muscle that can not be repaired surgically, i don't want the bulge in my side to get larger.
1. will it get larger?
2. will everyday tasks make it worse? ie: pushing lawn mower, pushing vacuum, lifting groceries,etc.??

Answered by Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
hi and welcome

Detailed Answer:
It depends on several factors.usually it has tendention to grow but slowly. If this is rectus atrophy without hernia than everyday avtivities wont have bad effect and rectus mucle strengthening can only be beneficial. If there is hernia or this is postoperative then weight lifting may worsen symptoms,but you can lift few kg,do regular housework and push lawn, this wont be harmful.just avoid squat lifting. If bulge progresses then it should be and can be surgically repaired with mesh technique.wish you good health. Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (48 minutes later)

thank you, follow up question,my surgeon did not think surgery was an option ,i don't recall the reason i hope if i see another surgeon to evaluate my condition he or she may think a mesh procedure is warranted

Answered by Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (23 hours later)

Brief Answer:
hi

Detailed Answer:
well, surgery is always the last solution of course, but abdominal wall can be reinforced with mesh implants if condition causes discomfort or pain. it is today available in most better surgical centres.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar