Running with a pulled ab muscle

dmh0204

So. I pulled an abdominal muscle sometime Wednesday--I ran that morning, but didn't feel anything "pulled" until last night when I was trying to pick up my 11 month old, and one spot on my abs felt like it was tearing and weak. Now, I can't even really lift the baby without wrenching it again, so I know that I am not going to be lifting for a couple of days, and certainly no abs.

But can I run? I want this thing to heal, so I know I should use ice and anti-inflammatories. But should I do total rest, or can I still do cardio, if it doesn't hurt too bad?

And what are some other tips for caring for a pulled ab muscle. I've pulled lots of other muscles, but never my abs.