Muscle Strains
A muscle strain, or a muscle pull, is when your muscle is overstretched or torn. This usually occurs as a result of fatigue, overuse, or improper use of a muscle. Strains can happen in any muscle, but are most common in your lower back, neck, shoulder, quadriceps (thigh) and hamstring (back of leg). This type of injury results in damage to a muscle or its attaching tendons.
Muscle strains can result from a tearing (part or all) of the muscle fibers and/or the tendons attached to the muscle. The tearing of the muscle can also cause localized bruising and pain. The pain caused can limit movement of the affected muscle group. Mild to moderate muscle strains can be treated at home and in the athletic training room with ice/heat, stretching, and strengthening. More extensive muscle injuries may require this treatment as well, with the addition of electrical muscle stim/ultrasound and modification of activity.
While some athletes are able to play through mild strains with some limitations, more severe injuries will require time away from practice and games in order to heal. Progressive activities, like the stationary bike and elliptical machine, may be used until the athlete feels well enough to return to running activities.
Supportive wrapping and sleeves are often helpful once the athlete returns to play. A thorough warm-up and stretching program, along with a restoration of muscle strength are important in preventing re-injury.
Please select the tab to the left that corresponds to your specific site of injury.