Abdominal Wall Pain

Abdominal wall pain, a specific subset of abdominal pain, is often overlooked by healthcare providers. It is estimated that 2% to 3% of patients with an initial complaint of abdominal pain actually have the diagnosis of abdominal wall pain. The most common cause of abdominal wall pain is anterior cutaneous nerve entrapment (ACNES); however, the differential diagnosis can be quite vast. The diagnosis of abdominal wall pain is usually made clinically with an array of physical exam maneuvers. A multidisciplinary approach to treatment can effectively reduce symptoms and improve quality of life, and includes exercise therapy, therapeutic modalities, and interventional injections. A thorough diagnosis is required to adequately treat the patient appropriately.