Don’t Let Strains Put You on the Sideline

Muscle strains can happen while hiking, running, or while performing everyday activities. Sometimes referred to as a pulled muscle, a muscle strain leaves you with a sharp pain that can cause swelling and discomfort.

A muscle strain is caused when the muscle becomes too stretched. There are varying degrees of pain associated with muscle strains, from minimal discomfort to severe swelling. However, the good news is that these injuries can be treated within the comfort of your own home.

“Resting for a few days will help limit pain and prevent any further damage if you suffer from a muscle strain,” says Dr. A. Elizabeth Blozé, physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist at Southern California Orthopedic Institute. “Applying heat can help loosen up the muscle while applying ice will reduce pain.”

Other treatment options include anti-inflammatory medications, which will reduce pain as well as swelling. To help prevent muscle strains from occurring, conducting stretching exercises before participating in sports or other activities is always a good idea. Another preventative measure is to avoid overdoing it, as many muscle strains occur when you are fatigued and worn down.

To learn more about conditions, visit Southern California Orthopedic Institute’s Patient Education Center by clicking here.

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