ADAM Health Encyclopedia

Strains

Definition

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.

Alternative Names

Causes

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

Symptoms

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

First Aid

• Apply ice immediately to reduce swelling. Wrap the ice in cloth -- avoid using ice 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 elevated above the level of the heart.
• Avoid using a strained muscle while it is still painful. When the pain subsides, start activity slowly and in moderation.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

• 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

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

DeLee JC, Drez D Jr, Miller MD, eds. DeLee and Drez’s Orthopaedic Sports Medicine. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders; 2003.

Frontera, WR, Silver JK, eds. Essentials of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. 1st ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Hanley & Belfus; 2002.

Marx JA, Hockberger RS, Walls RM, eds. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 5th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2002.