Swinging a sledge hammer

[Michaeloon]

On Monday, October 27, 2008, I swung a sledge hammer to break up an old, but sturdy, wooden patio lounger.  Since doing that, I have pain on the right side of my body just below my rib cage.  I suspect I must have pulled a muscle.  I am 5' 9" tall and weigh approximately 188 pounds.  I have a pudgy stomach.  Although I do drink perhaps a six pack of beer per week, I did not get the stomach just from beer.  I do like to eat.  Not a lot of junk, but a lot of whatever is being served.  I have been taking two 200mg OTC Motrin 2 - 3 times daily, but with very limited relief.

Any suggestions on relieving the pain?  Anything to avoid?  I have tried to avoid most physical activities, can't do them anyway.  How long might this last?  Could I have done other damage that is not apparent to me?  I do have a primary care physician.  Should I call him on Monday and make an appointment?

[Tuckamore]

Hi Micheal,

I am glad you found us at MedHelp. Welcome. Ow, I'm sorry you are hurting. I would be too if I tried to swing a sludge hammer.

Certainly you could have "pulled" a muscle, or even torn something. It's been long enough that the discomfort should be easing. You can take more of the Motrin or try another OTC pain reliever. But be sure you are not taking NSAID's on an empty tummy, no pun intended. (I like to eat too).

Yes I would call my physician on Monday and just have things checked out. It sure can't hurt. I hope you are soon feeling well and the sledge hammer will just be a "bad memory." Feel free to keep us updated on your condition. We're here for you and I'll be looking forward to hearing from you.  Best of luck,  Tuck

[Mollyrae]

Hello and welcome to Med Help.
I love food too! I really sounds like you pulled something when you were swinging the hammer. In my opinion, if the Motrin is not helping is to see your Doc on Monday. You may need an x-ray..Til then, I would just get some rest. Try not to do too much. Maybe a warm bath might help, that sometimes makes my muscles and joints feel better and relaxes me at the same time. I hope you feel better soon...
Take care,
Mollyrae

[buriedinfur]

Stretch it really gently, use heat on the area and perhaps try a mild muscle relaxant like robaxacet. If you get severe pain, get additional symptoms or if it persists without improvement see your dr asap.