According to the major symptom you describe, (a formed knot in lower left quadrant of the abdominal wall), it is possible that you may be experiencing a left-side inguinal hernia.


An inguinal hernia is being formed when various soft tissues from the abdominal cavity protrudes through a weak point, into the inguinal canal in the lower abdominal wall. It might or might not enter down into the testicular sack. The most common reasons for the appearance of various types of hernias are: hard coughing, bending over, lifting heavy objects or having scars of previous surgeries.


Typical signs of an inguinal hernia might include: a buldge, pain/discomfort in groin area which might become intensive when lifting heavy things, bending or coughing, heavy sensations in groins or testicles swelling. Doctors usually recommend surgical repair when there is pain or enlargement of the hernia.


However, it is hard to say whether you should continue ab work or lifting without a direct physical examination. Therefore, ab work exercises and heavy lifting abstinence might be the wisest choice at this time. You might want a second opinion (a double-check) by a general/abdominal surgeon or urologist on this issue, and an additional permission for exercising.