Muscle Strain Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Muscle strains occur when a muscle or tendon is twisted or pulled during an activity or movement. Severe cases may have partial or total tearing of the muscle or tendon. It can be acute or chronic strain.

In acute muscle strain, the cause is usually due to recent trauma or injury. Improper lifting techniques or overstressing the muscles may also lead to an acute strain. Chronic strain commonly occurs because of overuse injury. It results from prolonged and repetitive movements of the muscles or tendons.

Although muscle strains can occur anywhere in the body, the two most common sites are the back and the hamstring muscles. Participating in sports such as hockey, football, soccer, and wrestling puts a person at risk of having strains. Sports involving repetitive movements of the forearms and hands, such as tennis, rowing, and golf may also lead to muscle strains.

Common signs and symptoms of muscle strains include pain, muscle spasms, and limited mobility (motion). Sometimes, muscle weakness may be experienced. In some cases, swelling, muscle cramping, and inflammation may also occur. In severe cases where there is tearing of the muscle or tendon, severe pain may be felt, which often can be disabling.

Mild muscle strain treatment is almost the same as the treatment for mild sprains. For mildly strained muscle, applying RICE therapy may just be enough. RICE stands for rest, ice application, compression, and elevation. This therapy is usually done during the acute stage or within 24 to 48 hours after the injury. Over-the-counter pain medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen may help relieve pain.

Rest is usually advised for recent mild injuries. Give enough time for the body to repair. Ice pack application can help relieve pain and swelling if present. Do not apply hot packs immediately after the injury as this may cause more pain and swelling.

To apply ice pack, wrap it in layers of towel and apply over the injured muscle or tendon for 20 minutes. Do not apply ice pack for more than 20 minutes at a time because this may cause cold injury. Do not apply ice pack if you have other health problems unless your doctor tells you so.

Compressing the injured limb with bandage may also help decrease swelling. Also, elevating the limb above the heart may help reduce swelling as well. Ask your healthcare provider what compressing material to use or how tight to apply the bandage.

For severe cases of muscle strains, medical attention is necessary. Total tearing of the muscles may require surgical procedure.

Sources:

Questions and Answers Sprains and Strains. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS).

Strain: Injury to Muscle or Tendon. Nasugnam Health-Division of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases