Muscle strains, also known as pulled muscles, can cause a lot of pain and even long-term disability if not treated correctly. Knowing what to look for and how to treat pulled muscles and muscle strains can help you recover quickly and avoid further injury.

In this blog post from PhysioHeal, we’ll cover everything you need to know about pulled muscles and muscle strains, from symptoms to treatments.

We’ll also discuss ways to prevent pulled muscles and strains in the future. Read on to learn more about how to spot and manage pulled muscles and muscle strains.

1) What is pulled muscle or muscle strain?

A pulled muscle, also known as a muscle strain, is a common injury that occurs when the muscle fibers tear due to sudden, forceful movement.

A pulled muscle can be a minor or serious injury and can range from mild to severe. It typically occurs in the lower back, shoulders, thighs, and calves.

Symptoms of a pulled muscle include pain, swelling, bruising, and loss of movement in the affected area. Depending on the severity of the injury, these symptoms may start immediately or develop gradually over time. In some cases, a pulled muscle can cause extreme pain that may not subside until treated.

Pulled muscles can occur due to overstretching, overuse, or sudden strain on the muscle fibers. Common causes of pulled muscles include sports-related activities, improper warm-up exercises, lifting heavy weights, and repetitive motions such as typing or running. People who are more prone to pulled muscles include those who are not used to physical activity, those who are new to certain exercises or movements, and athletes who overexert themselves during intense workouts.

If you think you have a pulled muscle, it is important to rest and avoid any activities that may worsen the injury. You should also apply ice to the affected area for 15 minutes every two hours for the first 48 hours. This will help reduce swelling and inflammation and speed up recovery time. If your symptoms do not improve after two days of rest, you should see a doctor for further evaluation and treatment.

2) Muscle Strain Treatments You Need to Know

Muscle strain is a common injury that occurs when the muscles are overworked or stretched too far. Although it can be painful and cause discomfort, with the right treatment, it can usually be managed at home. Several treatments can be used to help reduce muscle strain and speed up the healing process.

The first step to treating muscle strain is rest. This means avoiding activities that may have caused the injury and not overworking the muscle. It is also important to ice the area for 20 minutes every few hours. This helps reduce inflammation, pain, and swelling. It is important to use an ice pack, not a heating pad, as heat can increase inflammation.

Stretching is an important part of treating muscle strain. Gently stretching the affected area can help reduce pain and encourage healing. To do this, hold the stretch for 30 seconds, then release it for 30 seconds. Repeat the stretch for 2-3 minutes to ensure the muscle is properly stretched.

Massage therapy is another effective treatment for muscle strain. Massaging the affected area can help reduce tension and improve blood flow. This will help reduce pain and promote healing. It is important to find a qualified massage therapist who can provide the correct treatment for your specific condition.

Compression is also an effective treatment for muscle strain. Applying a compression bandage or wrap to the affected area can help reduce swelling and pain. It is important to avoid wrapping too tightly as this can decrease blood circulation to the area.
Finally, over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce inflammation and pain. These should be taken as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.

Also Read: Leg Cramps During Sleep

These treatments can help reduce pain and speed up the healing process for muscle strain. However, if you experience any severe pain or other symptoms such as fever, dizziness, or numbness, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible for further evaluation and treatment.

3) Pulled muscle treatment with physiotherapy

Rest: One of the first steps in treating a pulled muscle is to rest it as much as possible. Refrain from any activity that causes pain and swelling, including activities such as running, walking, and lifting heavy objects. If you must move around, use crutches or a cane for support.
Ice: To reduce swelling, apply an ice pack to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every two to three hours. Be sure to place a cloth between the ice pack and your skin to avoid tissue damage.
Compression: Wrap the affected area with an elastic bandage or compression wrap to help reduce swelling and support the injured muscle.
Elevation: Whenever possible, elevate the affected area above your heart. This will help reduce swelling and improve circulation.
Exercise: Once your pulled muscle has had time to rest and heal, your doctor may recommend a course of exercises or physical therapy to help strengthen the affected muscles and restore mobility. Your physiotherapist can also provide you with exercises to help with flexibility, range of motion, and strength.
Medication: Depending on the severity of your injury, your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication to help reduce pain and inflammation.
Massage: Massage therapy can be very beneficial for treating pulled muscles. Massage helps improve circulation and reduce muscle spasms, stiffness, and pain.
Ultrasound Therapy: This form of treatment uses sound waves to promote healing by increasing circulation and decreasing inflammation.
Acupuncture: Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that can help reduce muscle pain and stiffness. The needles are inserted into specific points in the body to stimulate the release of endorphins, which act as natural painkillers.
Kinesio Tape: Kinesio tape is a flexible elastic tape that helps support injured muscles and joints without restricting movement or range of motion. It can help relieve pain and increase flexibility and range of motion in the affected area.

Pulled muscle treatment with physiotherapy is essential for getting back on your feet after suffering a muscle strain or pull. Be sure to follow your doctor’s advice regarding rest and exercise, and take advantage of the various treatments available to help relieve pain and improve mobility. With proper treatment, you can make a full recovery from your pulled muscle or strain in no time!

Also Read: What is Piriformis Syndrome and Common Causes?

Conclusion

Pulled muscles and muscle strains can be painful and uncomfortable, but with proper treatment and prevention, you can reduce the risk of injury. Seeking professional medical advice is always recommended for severe or persistent pulled muscle or strain symptoms. With proper care, you can reduce your chances of experiencing future episodes. PhysioHeal provides you with the best physiotherapy treatments in Gurgaon. You can also avail our services at your home with the best physiotherapist in Gurgaon.