Tennis provides recreation and exercise for millions of people, but competitors should understand that injuries are a common part of the game. A pulled, strained or torn muscle is possible even in a friendly, casual game of tennis. Fortunately, taking the right preventative measures can reduce injury risk. If you suffer a torn muscle while playing tennis, your doctor can put you on a recovery path that will get you back in the game sooner rather than later.
The Grueling Game
To the uninitiated, tennis has the look of a genteel, delicate sport unlikely to cause serious harm to competitors. In fact, tennis exacts a toll on the body that rivals virtually any other sport. Players run at top speed back and forth across the baseline, often stopping and changing direction as quickly as possible. High-speed serves resemble baseball pitches — and put comparable strain on the arms and shoulders. The motions required to make contact with the ball firmly place enormous stresses on the wrists and elbows. It's no surprise that thousands of people each year end up in doctor's offices and hospitals as a result of tennis injuries. Pulled and torn muscles are just one example.
Torn Calf Muscle
The calf muscle attaches the heel to the back of the knee by way of the Achilles tendon. The location where the tendon joins with the muscle is typically the site of a strain or tear. Both novice players and experienced pros can suffer from a torn calf muscle, also known as tennis leg. The injury is marked by a sharp, sudden pain in the calf followed by a dull throbbing or burning sensation. In a complete tear, the athlete may feel a snap in the leg. A quick acceleration in pursuit of the ball is the most common cause of a strained or torn calf.
Torn Rotator Cuff
The rotator cuff is a complex group of muscles and tendons that allow the arm to move away from the torso and rotate in a complete circle. Rotator cuff injuries are common in both tennis and baseball players, as well as workers who must lift their hand above their heads frequently. In tennis, the service puts the greatest strain on the rotator cuff, but all swinging motions apply some amount of pressure. Pain in the shoulder may increase at night and make sleeping on the side impossible. Early treatment is important, because limiting your motion for a prolonged period causes neighboring muscles to atrophy.
Prevention
Absolute prevention of torn muscles in tennis may be impossible, but there are practical steps that can increase the overall safety of the game. For one, avoid playing on hard or synthetic surfaces. Wear heel inserts to provide an extra layer of cushion between your body and the surface. Warm your muscles before playing with a short jog or other aerobic exercise. Stretch after your muscles are warm, not before. As you learn the game, focus on good technique. A poor swing action can increase your chances of injury.
Treatment
As always, your family doctor can prescribe the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific situation. In general, rest is the most important factor in enabling recovery from a pulled muscle. Ice applied to the site of the muscle can reduce swelling and discomfort, as can elevating the affected area. Over-the-counter pain medication should also reduce inflammation and discomfort. After a couple of days of rest, begin very gentle exercise of the injured muscles. Don't stretch the muscle to the point of pain or tightness, as this can aggravate the injury.
