Health Care Encyclopedia
| |
StrainsDefinition: 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: Pulled muscle
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.
Call immediately for emergency medical assistance 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: - Warm-up properly before exercise and sports.
- Keep your muscles strong and flexible.
References: DeLee JC, Drez, Jr., D, 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.
|
| Review Date: 6/8/2005
Reviewed By: Kevin B. Freedman, MD, MSCE, Sports Medicine, Orthopaedic Specialists, Bryn Mawr, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
|
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
|  |
|
|
|
|
