| Subject | Contents |
| Definition | A strain is a painful injury to a muscle that involves tearing of some muscle fibers. A strain may result from a traumatic injury or from improper or over-use of a muscle. |
| Alternative Names | Pulled muscle |
| Considerations | Use ice for 48 hours after injury - then ice or heat after that. Avoid using a strained muscle while it is still painful. When the pain subsides, start activity slowly and in moderation. |
| Causes | Excessive physical activity or effort Improper warming up before participating in a physical activity Poor flexibility |
| Symptoms | Pain and impaired movement when using the injured muscle Discoloration of the skin, especially bruisingSwelling |
| First Aid | 1. Apply cold compresses immediately and repeatedly for 15 minutes every 3 to 4 hours for the first day (this will help reduce swelling ). Avoid using ice directly on the skin. 2. Rest the pulled muscle for at least 1 day. 3. Keeping the pulled muscle elevated may shorten the duration of symptoms. |
| Do Not | DO NOT ignore pain that persists. Rest muscles that are in pain. |
| Call immediately for emergency medical assistance if | You are unable to move the affected muscle . There is any external bleeding . |
| Prevention | Maintain good strength and flexibility in all muscles. Warm-up properly before participating in physical activities. Practice moderation in physical activities . |
| | |