An oblique injury in football involves the muscles on the side of the body between the ribs and pelvis. This type of injury can occur when a player takes a hard hit to the waist area, or from overuse or sudden use of the muscles, such as a quarterback throwing a pass or a defensive back defending a receiver. Oblique strains usually occur during trunk rotation, potentially due to the role that the obliques have in producing trunk side flexion. Symptoms of an oblique strain can range from considerable discomfort to a sharp, nearly debilitating pain when the muscle is used. Treatment for oblique strains typically involves rest, anti-inflammatory medications, warm/cold compress, and sometimes a brace. The recuperation period lasts for a few weeks, and physical therapy may benefit athletes who want to return to their sport stronger and wiser.