When news broke that Sam Darnold was dealing with an oblique injury, many people assumed it was minor. In reality, oblique injuries can be frustrating, slow to heal, and surprisingly limiting, especially for athletes who rely heavily on rotation and power. At Pain Free Health Clinic, we see this type of injury often, not just in professional athletes but also in people who train regularly or stay active.
The oblique muscles run along the sides of the abdomen and play a major role in stabilizing the spine, rotating the torso, and transferring force between the upper and lower body. Every time an athlete throws, twists, or changes direction, the obliques are working. Because of this, they are especially vulnerable to strain when the body is fatigued or overloaded.
In quarterbacks like Sam Darnold, oblique injuries usually develop from repeated throwing motions. Each throw places rotational stress through the core, and over time this can lead to irritation or tearing of the muscle. Sudden twisting, contact during play, or pushing through fatigue can all increase the risk. What often starts as mild discomfort can quickly become more painful if ignored.
People with an oblique injury often notice pain or tightness along the side of the abdomen, especially with twisting or bending movements. Some feel discomfort when coughing, laughing, or getting out of bed. Because the core is involved in nearly every movement, these injuries can linger and become frustrating if not managed properly.
One of the challenges with oblique injuries is that they are difficult to fully rest. Even everyday activities like walking, sitting upright, or reaching require core activation. Returning to activity too quickly can slow recovery or lead to reinjury, which is why proper management is so important.
At Pain Free Health Clinic, treatment focuses on more than just reducing pain. Early on, this may include modifying activity, calming inflammation, and restoring gentle movement. As symptoms improve, rehabilitation progresses toward rebuilding core strength, improving rotational control, and gradually reintroducing sport or activity-specific movements. The goal is always to restore function safely and reduce the risk of future injury.
Recovery time depends on the severity of the strain. Mild injuries may resolve within a few weeks, while more significant strains can take longer. For high-level athletes, return to play decisions are based on movement quality, strength, and symptom response rather than a set timeline.
Sam Darnold’s injury is a good reminder of how important the core is to overall performance. Oblique injuries may not sound serious, but they can have a major impact if not handled correctly. Whether you are a competitive athlete or someone who stays active, addressing pain early and following a proper rehab plan can make all the difference.
If you are dealing with side pain, core discomfort, or a sports-related injury, the team at Pain Free Health Clinic is here to help you recover safely and get back to doing what you enjoy.
