<human>: Hello, I just received notice late today RE: an ultrasound, that some sharp pain in the lower abdominal area on the left side (generally around the belt area & below) is considered a "bulging muscle" & not a hernia. The nurse could not explain further - & I see my surgeon in about 3 weeks (due to a right inguinal hernia surgery which was performed 3 weeks ago). The nurse said I could discuss the issue with the surgeon at the appointment. I am confused as to what exactly a "bulging muscle" in that physical anatomical region would be, and what is the treatment potentially - or will this just subside...? Thank you for your input based on my information supplied.... Jon Spallees
<bot>: Hi. Thanks for your query. Read and understood that you had undergone a hernia surgery 3 weeks ago and ultrasonography was done to know the reasons. It showed a bulged muscle and not a hernia. This bulged muscle may be the one which is used in hernia repair to overlap the gap caused by the hernia which the Radiologist may not know about. The sharp pains are usually caused by the nerve entrapment in the scar which is developing. Gabapentin or Amitriptyline may help reduce the pain or may need a small neurectomy later. I hope this clears your doubts.