Abdominal Rigidity

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

Abdominal rigidity describes stiffness of the wall of the abdomen.

What is going on in the body?

Abdominal rigidity is often caused by a spasm of the abdominal wall muscles after an injury. It may also be a sign that the person has swelling inside the abdominal cavity. Serious disease inside the abdomen can also cause abdominal rigidity.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

Rigidity may point to a local problem in the muscles. Or it may relate to a deeper problem inside the abdomen. These are causes of abdominal rigidity:

  • bleeding into the muscles of the abdominal wall
  • bowel or abdominal infection, such as diverticulitis or appendicitis
  • an inflammation of the pancreas
  • injury or strain to the muscles of the abdominal wall
  • peritonitis, or an inflamed lining of the abdomen