What is a Pulled Muscle in the Arm

Everyone who does strenuous work or exercise has known the pain of a pulled muscle in the arm. It usually starts as a sharp spasm and can last for a few days. There are many things you should look into when you think you have pulled a muscle in your arm. Above all, the proper care, considerations and time to heal are important. Here are a few things to remember about pulled muscles.

Most often a pulled muscle in the arm is the result of an accident. Usually this occurs during a sport event or exercise. The reason a muscle in the arm is pulled is because it was not stretched or warmed up before working the muscle.

Some of the more common symptoms of a pulled muscle in the arm include pain, tenderness or swelling of the muscle. Another symptom is the inability to move the arm or muscle normally because of pain and swelling. The arm could feel stiff or extremely tight. The possibility of sudden cramping can occur as well. Severe sprains can result in a paralysis like feeling where you cannot move the arm or you experience a tingling or numbness in the affected arm.

Proper care of a pulled muscle in the arm will likely involve a visit to the doctor. An X-ray can be ordered to eliminate the possibility of a broken bone or severely torn muscle. A splint may be provided to keep the injured muscle from moving if you have suffered a bad sprain. If the skin around the area is scratched or torn, a tetanus shot is also a possibility.

In order to avoid a pulled muscle in the arm, it is recommended that you stretch the muscle gently before the activity. Your doctor can show you a few methods to do this. If you have past signs of a pulled muscle try wearing a support bandage and wrap weak joints to avoid damaging the same area again. Pulled muscles usually take up to two weeks to heal.

If you suffer a pulled muscle in the arm, apply ice to the area for up to 20 minutes per hour for two days after the injury. Place the ice in a plastic bag, and wrap it in a towel. After doing this, you can apply heat via warm towels for 20 minutes per hour for two days. Do not use the arm for stretching during the healing. OTC medications for pain can help when taken as directed.