What is a Pulled Muscle?
Our bodies contain more than 300 muscles that help us move and give us those “six-pack abs” we hear so much about! If you’re an athlete, or you exercise, and you take the necessary time to stretch those muscles before a work out or athletic event, you find they thank you for time well spent with flexibility and strength. If you fail to do the proper warm up, you risk suffering a pulled (torn or strained) muscle or even worse, a complete muscle tear.
What are the symptoms of a pulled muscle? Usually the area around the muscle will be sore, swollen and tender. You may have difficulty moving the affected area because of the pain and swelling. Sometimes an x-ray of the area may be needed to confirm that you have not broken any bones.
What should you do for a pulled muscle?
- Apply ice for no more than 20-minute intervals, four to eight times a day to reduce pressure and decrease blood flow to the affected muscle. This helps reduce swelling.
- Wrap the injured area in an elastic (ace) bandage for support, but be sure it is not too tight!
- Do not use the muscle while the pain is still present.
- Keep the affected area elevated, above your heart.
A muscle that has been damaged previously is likely to be damaged again if it has not healed properly. Many of our patients begin care in our practice because they were suffering from a pulled muscle. Chiropractic care can be effective in relieving pain and enhancing proper healing.
Please contact our practice if you have specific questions related to the care and treatment of a pulled muscle.
Dr. Wald Asks...
