What is an abdominal strain? Medical expert explains Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's injury

For the first time in years, the Oklahoma City Thunder navigated the NBA world without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. He's missed at least five games with an abdominal strain before the All-Star break. We'll see how he is afterward, but you gotta hope he returns sooner than later.

The Thunder went 2-3 in that stretch. Not bad, all things considered. Jalen Williams' two-game return helped with that before he re-aggravated another hamstring strain. Think it's obvious to say the reigning NBA champions need the reigning MVP to return.

So, what exactly is an abdominal strain? If you follow sports long enough, you have a rough idea. But Thunder Wire went the distance to get a medical expert's knowledge on the injury. After all, it's important to have a basis for the injury as OKC's title hopes depend on Gilgeous-Alexander:

Could you explain about yourself and your expertise?

"I’m Todd McGrath, MD, a primary sports medicine physician at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), board‑certified in emergency medicine and sports medicine. In addition to general sports medicine and acute orthopedic injuries. At HSS, I offer my patients minimally invasive, ultrasound‑guided procedures, treat sports‑related concussions, perform biomechanical and gait assessments, and conduct exertional compartment testing."

What exactly is an abdominal strain?

"An abdominal strain is an injury to the abdominal wall muscle, often a partial tear of either the rectus or oblique muscles of the abdomen."

How do NBA players sustain it?

"It is usually related to a sudden and rapid twisting or rotation of the core muscles, causing an eccentric load (when muscle fibers develop force while lengthening) to the abdominal muscles. A change in direction on the court or going up for a rebound may be the cause."

What does the recovery process and timeline typically look like?'

"Lower‑grade, mild injuries may recover as quickly as 10 days to two weeks. More severe injuries with significant tearing may take as long as 8–12 weeks to heal. Moderate strains fall in the middle, often taking about 3–6 weeks. Initial management focuses on a brief period of rest and controlling pain and inflammation. This is followed by early gentle range‑of‑motion work and mobilization of the injured muscles within pain limits. As the athlete improves, they progress to focused strengthening, agility, and core‑stability exercises, then to sport‑specific activities leading up to return‑to‑play."

Any chance of re‑aggravation?

"Certainly. If a player rushes back too soon, there is potential for reinjury or aggravation."

This article originally appeared on OKC Thunder Wire: What is an abdominal strain? Medical expert explains SGA's injury