Alternative Names: Pulled muscle

Considerations:

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.

Do Not:

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 Drezs Orthopaedic Sports Medicine. 2^nd Ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders; 2003.

Frontera, WR, Silver JK, eds. Essentials of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. 1^st Ed. Philadelphia, PA: Hanley & Belfus; 2002.

Marx JA, Hockberger RS, Walls RM, eds. Rosens Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 5^th Ed. St. Louis, MO: Mosby; 2002.