PHYSICAL THERAPY
A pulled muscle, or strain, occurs when the muscle becomes stretched, or torn.
A pulled muscle can be caused by a number of different everyday activities, including sports, or heavy lifting. This type of injury can occur in any muscle, but it is especially common in the back, neck, shoulder, or hamstring.
Symptoms of a Pulled Muscle
A pulled muscle will cause pain at the time of injury, as well as soreness and a limited range of movement afterwards. There may also be swelling at the injury site, as well as bruising. A feeling of stiffness, or muscle spasms are other common symptoms to look for.
What Causes a Pulled Muscle?
Heavy lifting, excessive stress to your muscles, or quick sudden moves can all contribute to a muscle pull. Pulled muscles are especially common in sports since sudden movements such as throwing a ball can increase the risk of injury. It is also a common injury among those who lift weights.
Treatment Options
In most cases you can treat your pulled muscle at home by resting and applying ice to the affected area. In some situations though, medical treatment may be required. If the pain doesn’t start to diminish after 24 hours, you should seek medical attention. Additionally, if you heard a popping sound during the injury, or if there is a significant amount of pain or swelling, it’s important to seek medical treatment right away. The doctor will perform a physical exam, to determine whether the muscle is partially or completely torn. A complete tear will involve a longer recovery process, and in severe cases, may even require surgery.
Finally, try to elevate the muscle as much as possible to help reduce swelling. You should also avoid putting pressure on the muscle until the pain has gone or improved significantly. Not allowing the injury to heal properly could cause additional damage, and prolong the healing time.
If you have suffered a sports injury, or believe that you have a pulled muscle, contact Rhode Island orthopedic specialists, Blackstone Orthopedics, today.
Medical disclaimer: This page is for educational and informational purposes only and may not be construed as medical advice. The information is not intended to replace medical advice offered by physicians.
