Muscle strains -

Fact Checked

Muscle strains occur as a result of tearing or stretching of the tendons or muscles. Tendons are fibrous tissues that connect the muscles and the bones together. People often experience strains in the lower back and in their hamstring muscle located at the backside of the thigh.

Symptoms

Some of the symptoms of muscle strains include:

Pain
Muscle spasms
Swelling
Limited ability or inability to move certain joints and the affected muscles

When to seek medical help

While mild muscle strains can be easily alleviated at home, see your doctor if the following problems take place:

You are not able to walk four or more steps without feeling any pain
You are not able to move the affected muscle
You are feeling numbness in the affected area
The discomfort is interrupting your daily work routine

Treatment

Individuals that take workplace approved first aid and CPR courses learn how to recognize and manage muscle strains by using the following techniques.

1. Prevent more injuries and control swelling using RICE:

Rest—do not use the affected muscle for a day at least
Ice—apply an ice pack on the affected area to control swelling, for 10-15 minutes
Compress—gently wrap an elastic bandage—not too tightly as it may discourage circulation
Elevate—raise the affected area above your heart level, if practical, for one day at least

2. Reduce pain and inflammation

You can do this by taking over-the-counter pain killers such as ibuprofen or aspirin. Do NOT give aspirin to children and teenagers under 18 years of age.

3. Continue care

Ice and elevate for every 3-4 hours

4. Call a doctor if

After 1-2 days, the person is not able to move or apply any stress or weight on the affected region
The area seems to be clammy, cool, pale or simply changes color or appearance
You feel a tingling sensation or numbness in the affected are
You are experiencing an unusual sort of pan
You need to consult your doctor or health care provider to get some advice about how to continue exercising or working

Call 911 or a local emergency number if the following complications arise:

You heard a ‘pop’ sound while getting injured
You are not able to walk at all
You experience fever, open cuts and severe bleeding along with swelling and pain

Muscle strains