How to train/rehab a torn abdominal muscle

[Steven Myers]

Hello all,
My wife has torn her abdominal wall on her right side just under her rib cage.
She has been in terrible pain for over a week.
She has been training barbells for almost a year now and has taken her DL up to 190 for 5, so she isn’t weak.
What is the best way to rehab the injury and at what point should she start lifting again?
I really hope to get some feedback, she is a huge fan of Mark and the podcast so she values his opinion but I know it is going to be hard for her to ignore the doctors who say just don’t do anything for 6 weeks to let it heal.
Thanks in advance

[Mark Rippetoe]

How do you know it isn't a fractured rib?

[Steven Myers]

How do you know it isn't a fractured rib?

she had x-rays and they were negative for break, and also an ultrasound that shows the tear.

she had an ATV accident several years ago and broke 7 ribs, she says this pain is similar but not as bad as the ribs.

[Mark Rippetoe]

Get her a velcro belt to put over the injury after she puts on her regular belt. That will support it as it heals.