Muscle strains, more commonly known as pulled muscles, involve the stretching or tearing of the muscle fiber. These can occur in the belly of the muscle or the muscle tendon. A sudden increase in muscle pressure or an awkward movement can result in a muscle strain. The most common muscle strains occur in the calf (gastrocnemius), Achilles tendon, hamstring, quadriceps and rotator cuff. There are certain signs and symptoms to look out for if you suspect you have strained a muscle.
Pain
If you move a strained muscle, you will feel pain. You will also feel tenderness at the point of the tear. At the moment of injury, there may have been a sudden pain, which can be described as a "pop" or "snap."
Loss of Strength
There are three grades of muscle strains. In a grade 1 strain, there is still sufficient muscle strength. In a grade 2 muscle strains, there will be less muscle strength and function on the injured side, compared with the uninjured side. A grade 3 muscle strain can cause a complete loss of muscle function.
Muscle Defect
A strain or tear in the muscle can be felt. When you run your fingers along the muscle, you can feel the injury site. In severe muscle strains that cause complete rupture of the muscle or tendon, the defect will be visible---the muscle will roll up the bone or there will be an indentation in the muscle.
Bruising
Damage to blood vessels and capillaries cause bleeding at the sight of injury. Ecchymosis, the medical term for a bruise, is caused by blood under the skin. The bruise may also be swollen.
References
- "Principles of Athletic Training", 10th Edition; Daniel Arnheim; 2000
- "Rehabilitation Techniques in Sports Medicine", Third Edition; William E. Prentice; 1999
