Muscle Strain
Andreas Leonidou
Orthopaedic Surgeon
56 Kifisias Ave. & Delfon St.,
Marousi, 15125
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Muscle strain is a common injury caused by excessive stretching or sudden contraction of the muscles, resulting in stretching, partial, or complete tearing of muscle fibres. This injury can occur during sports activities or even in everyday life. Muscle strains are a very common cause of persistent pain and can affect the patient’s daily life, work, and athletic activities.
MUSCLE STRAIN – CAUSES
The main causes of muscle strain include:
Sudden and intense movement: Sprinting, jumping, or rapid changes of direction can lead to muscle strain.
Excessive strain: Prolonged exercise without adequate rest can cause muscle fatigue and eventually lead to strain.
Poor warm-up: Insufficient warm-up before exercise increases the risk of injury.
Accidents: Unexpected injuries, such as slipping or impact, can cause muscle strain.
MUSCLE STRAIN – PREDISPOSING FACTORS
Predisposing factors that increase the risk of muscle strain include:
Poor technique: Intense exercise without adequate stretching and periods of rest.
Previous injuries: A history of previous muscle strains increases the likelihood of recurrence.
Poor physical condition: Individuals with poor physical fitness are more prone to injuries. Typically, people who decide to engage in intense exercise after a prolonged period of inactivity are at higher risk of injury.
MUSCLE STRAIN – CLASSIFICATION
Muscle strain is classified into three grades, depending on the severity of the muscle fibre tear:
Grade 1 strain (mild): Small tear or stretching of a few muscle fibres with mild pain and minimal swelling.
Grade 2 strain (moderate): Larger tear (50%) with more intense pain, swelling, and some degree of loss of function.
Grade 3 strain (severe): Complete muscle tear with severe pain, significant swelling, bruising, and loss of function.
MUSCLE STRAIN – DIAGNOSIS
A patient with a muscle strain requires assessment by a specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon – Sports Medicine Specialist. Dr Leonidou will take a detailed medical history, examine you, and perform an ultrasound scan of the area to assess muscle integrity and the possible presence of swelling or haematoma. In some cases, the doctor will refer you for an MRI scan of the affected area.
MUSCLE STRAIN – TREATMENT
Treatment of muscle strain is almost always conservative and includes:
Rest: Stopping exercise to prevent worsening of the injury.
Ice therapy: Applying ice 3–4 times per day for 15 minutes to reduce pain and swelling.
Compression: Applying an elastic bandage to support the area and reduce swelling.
Elevation: Elevating the injured limb to reduce swelling.
Physiotherapy and home exercise programme: Patients with muscle strains benefit from an individualised rehabilitation programme. The exercises include stretching of the affected area, swelling reduction techniques, and gradual strengthening of the muscle.
MUSCLE STRAIN – WHEN WILL I RETURN TO SPORTS?
Return to sports should be gradual and performed with caution. The athlete must fully regain muscle strength and the range of motion of the related joints without pain. The rehabilitation process includes:
Gradual increase in exercise intensity.
Regular monitoring by a physiotherapist and doctor.
Avoidance of recurrent injuries.
MUSCLE STRAIN – PREVENTION
It is important that patients do not experience repeated episodes of muscle strain. Prevention strategies for athletes include:
Proper warm-up before exercise.
Stretching before and after exercise.
Correct technique during exercise.
Adequate rest and recovery after intense exercise.
With the right precautions and proper injury management, muscle strain can be effectively treated and recurrence can be prevented.
If you have suffered a muscle strain, consult the specialised Orthopaedic Surgeon – Sports Medicine Specialist Dr Andreas Leonidou.
Book your appointment for immediate diagnosis, specialist care, and targeted treatment in just one visit.