It is relatively common to experience the occasional muscle aches and sores, especially if you’re into rigorous exercise or if you’re an athlete. However, when these become unbearable, you may have a muscle strain or injury that can gradually lead to weakness, spasms, extreme pain and reduced performance.
In general, you may have a muscle strain if you experience muscle tightness, weakness and bruising. When you cannot completely stretch the affected muscle, it may be time to look for suitable treatments.
Managing Muscle Strains at Home
Pain in your muscles may be a result of any tear, injury or strain. Commonly, the most affected are high load and speed muscles, including your biceps, back, calf, thigh or quadriceps, and your hamstrings. Tears in your muscles may range from Grade One for mild muscle strains, Grade Two for moderate muscle strains, to Grade Three for complete rupture or severe muscle strains.
While treatments will depend on the severity of your muscle tear, until your strain has been properly diagnosed, you can use the following to manage your condition:
- If the affected site is swollen, elevate it.
- Use compression and ice bandages.
- Use crutches when moving about if you can’t stand the pain.
- If you are still able to train, reduce your efforts so as not to aggravate your muscle strain.
Treating Muscle Strains with Physiotherapy
If your muscle tears can’t be managed with in-home treatments, you may need to consult a physiotherapist to find the best treatments specific to your case. According to Muscle People Physiotherapy, the first appointment may last up to 40 minutes. Your physiotherapist will perform the following:
- Evaluate your current muscle function, biomechanics and core stability to prevent further injury
- Create a rehabilitation plan incorporating speed, flexibility, endurance and strength components tailor-fitted to your sport or training
- Assess neural tissue dynamics to make sure the scar tissue hasn’t entrapped any nerve tissues
- Use ice or heat therapy, if applicable
Prevent further muscle injuries and get back to your sport or training in no time. Consult your physiotherapist immediately if your symptoms get worse.