What Is A Muscle Strain?

When a muscle or tendon is stretched so far that it tears, it is called a strain. It usually occurs near the middle of the muscle, attaching to a bone. A strain can be either mild, moderate, or severe. A mild strain occurs when just some fibers are torn and causes pain and swelling at the point of injury. Contact Manhattan Sports Wellness physical therapy near wall street today if you’re dealing with a muscle strain! Many fibers are torn in a moderate strain, and symptoms vary from person to person. 

Some people with a moderate muscle strain may walk on the leg, while others may need to use crutches. There is complete rupture (tearing) of all tendon connections in severe muscle strains, and symptoms such as swelling, bruising, and high pain levels are common.Physical Therapy Near Wall Street

A strain can be caused by a direct blow to the muscle, falling with the foot planted, or strenuous overuse of the muscle for an extended period of time. The way someone moves can also cause a strain if there is not enough flexibility in certain joints. A sudden jerking motion can also lead to a strain.

A strain in a leg muscle can cause a limp that is worse when going up or downstairs, after sitting for a long time or when pressing into the muscle with a hand. Pain may also be worse when coughing or sneezing. In some cases, there will be considerable swelling and stiffness. Visit physical therapy near wall street today! The next step is to stretch and exercise the injured leg gently.

Exercises That May Help With Healing and Flexibility

  • Hamstring stretch: Begin by lying on your back with one knee bent and foot flat on the floor. Bring the other leg up and towards your chest, feeling a stretch in the back of your thigh. Hold for 15 to 30 seconds and repeat three times.
  • Quadriceps stretch: Stand up tall and straight, holding on to a sturdy object for balance if needed. Grasp your ankle and pull your heel towards your buttock, feeling a stretch in the front of your thigh. Hold for about 15 to 30 seconds and repeat three times
  • Calf stretch: Place your hands on a wall with one leg back, and heel pressed into the floor. Keeping your heel flat, lean into the wall until you feel a stretch in your calf muscle. Hold for 15 to 30 seconds and repeat three times.

Manhattan Sports Medicine – Physical Therapy Near Wall Street

In order to prevent a strain from becoming more severe, it is important to keep the leg muscles flexible. If you have been diagnosed with a muscle strain and are looking for care near home, contact Manhattan Sports Wellness physical therapy near wall street today!