STRAINS

A strain is a stretching injury to a muscle or tendon. Tendons connect muscles to bones. Strains may be as simple as a muscle that is over stretched or so severe that there is a partial or complete tear of the tendon or muscle. Sometimes people say they have a pulled muscle when talking about a muscle strain.

A strain is caused when a muscle or tendon is twisted or pulled. Strains usually happen to the back and the hamstring muscle in the back of the thigh. Contact sports like football or soccer and sports that need gripping, like tennis or rowing, are often the cause of strains. Racquet, throwing, and contact sports may cause strains in the elbow.

Strains can be acute or chronic. An acute injury is one that lasts for a short time and may be serious. An acute strain may be caused by an injury such as a blow to the body. It can also happen by lifting something the wrong way or putting too much stress on a muscle. A chronic injury is one that lasts for a long time. Chronic injuries are usually from overuse. An example of this is doing the same movement over and over for a long time.

Strains are rated three ways. A mild strain does not tear any muscle or tendon fibers. There may be mild muscle pain with a mild strain. There will be some tearing of fibers with a moderate strain. A moderate strain will cause some pain, muscle weakness and some bruising. A severe strain is a complete tear of the tendon or muscle. A severe strain can be very painful and it may not be possible to move the muscle or tendon.

Strains are treated very much like sprains. The first step of treatment is to lessen the pain and swelling. This can be done with rest, ice, compression, and elevation for 48 to 72 hours. Rest the muscle or tendon by not using it or not putting weight on it. A cloth covered ice pack can be put on the injured area for no more than 20 minutes 4 to 8 times a day. The healthcare provider may suggest applying an elastic bandage to the area. It must not be wrapped too tight. Pillows can be used to raise an injured arm or leg 12 inches above the heart.

A healthcare provider needs to see all moderate-to-severe strains. The provider may suggest using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for the pain, such as aspirin or ibuprofen. Aspirin or medicines that have aspirin in them should not be given to anyone younger than 18 years of age. Taking aspirin is a risk for a serious illness called Reye's syndrome. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should be taken with food or milk to prevent stomach upset. NSAIDs should be avoided by anyone who has been diagnosed with asthma, ulcer disease, or a bleeding disorder. Taking NSAIDs increases the risk of bleeding with trauma, dental work, surgery, or if taking blood thinners (anticoagulants).

The second part of the treatment can start when most of the pain and swelling are gone. Rehabilitation is needed to get the injured muscle or tendon back to normal. The provider can suggest an exercise program that will help prevent stiffness and make the muscles and tendons stronger. Surgery may be needed for a muscle or tendon that is torn. Physical therapy may be needed if there was surgery. The provider or physical therapist will help the injured person decide the right time to return to work and sports activities.

Strains can be prevented. This starts with a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy weight. Safety measures need to be followed to prevent falls. Shoes should fit right. Athletic shoes should be replaced as the tread wears out or the heel wears down on one side. Daily stretching exercises and warm up and stretching exercises before any sports or exercise are important. Run on even surfaces and avoid exercise or sports when tired or in pain.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File BONE4245.RF2 VRS# 4245 Data Version 7.0