* A sudden, sharp pain in your side when twisting your upper body * Swelling below your ribs * Bruising on your side * Pain when stretching hands overhead * Spasms or cramping in your side * Stiffness or loss of your range of motion when turning your trunk * Trouble walking or standing iIf you severely pulled your oblique) Warnings You should see a doctor if you are experiencing the above symptoms. Other medical conditions can cause similar symptoms to a pulled oblique muscle including the following: * A hernia * Cracked rib * Lung conditions * Stomach issues