Strains

Alternative Names: Pulled muscle

A strain is when a muscle becomes overstretched and tears. This painful injury, also called a "pulled muscle," can be caused by an accident, improper use of a muscle, or overuse of a muscle.

Causes of Strains

A strain may be caused by:

• Excessive physical activity or effort
• Improperly warming up before a physical activity
• Poor flexibility

Symptoms for Strains

Symptoms of a strain can include:

• Pain and difficulty moving the injured muscle
• Discolored and bruised skin
• Swelling

First Aid for Strains

• Apply ice immediately to reduce swelling. Wrap the ice in cloth. Do not place it directly on the skin. Apply ice for 10 to 15 minutes every 1 hour for the first day. Then, every 3 to 4 hours.
• Use ice for the first 3 days. After that, either heat or ice may be helpful.
• Rest the pulled muscle for at least a day. If possible, keep the pulled muscle raised about your heart.
• Avoid using a strained muscle while it is still painful. When the pain starts to go away, you can slowly increase activity.

When to Contact a Health Professional

Call your local emergency number, such as 911, if:

• You are unable to move the muscle.
• The injury is bleeding.

Call your doctor if the pain does not go away after several weeks.

Prevention of Strains

The following tips may help you reduce your risk of a strain:

• Warm-up properly before exercise and sports.
• Keep your muscles strong and flexible.

Brinker MR, O'Connor DP, Almekinders LC, et al. Physiology of Injury to Musculoskeletal Structures: 1. Muscle and Tendon Injury. In: DeLee JC, Drez D Jr, Miller MD, eds. DeLee and Drez's Orthopaedic Sports Medicine. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2009:chap 1, section A.

Muscle strain	Treatment for leg strain

Review Date: 5/1/2011
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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