Muscle strain (pulled muscle)

Description

Muscle strain means that the muscle has been excessively stretched or torn. Any muscle may be injured. In short period of time the injured muscle will have decreased strength or function. Bleeding into a tissue may occur and that causes bruises. Sometimes muscle strain is difficult tto be distinguished from ligament sprain or strain (twisted ankle).

Symptoms

Pain and difficulties in moving the injured muscle, pale and bluish skin, swelling.

Overview

History of disease is being taken and medical examination is being done. X-rays is done to exclude the fracture. MRI-magnetic resonance may be used for identifying the injured muscle or injuries of ligament or tendons. Magnetic resonance imaging is mostly not necessary but the diagnosis will be evident.

Tests

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and X-rays.

Specialists

General Practice, Internal Medicine, Sports Medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Therapy

Treatment includes: rest, ice, dressing, elevation and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (brufen/ibuprofen, naproxen), analgesics such as paracetamol. Severe muscle tearing or the one combined with the tendon or ligament injuries may require surgery.