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What is a pulled muscle?
A pulled muscle or muscle strain occurs when a muscle is stretched too far causing small tears within the muscle, leading to inflammation and pain.
Above: Deep tissue massage of the vastus laterallis muscleWhat causes a pulled muscle?
A pulled muscle is caused by a sudden, uncoordinated movement during sporting activities such as sprinting, jumping or kicking. During these activities the muscle is forcibly stretched beyond its limits and the muscle tissue tears.
What are the symptoms effects of a pulled muscle?
A pulled muscle will initially cause pain which will affect physical function such as standing, walking and climbing the stairs. People may also experience swelling, redness and bruising depending on the extent of the injury.
Diagnosis of a pulled muscle
A thorough physical assessment with a physiotherapist or doctor will confirm a diagnosis of a pulled muscle.
Above: Soft tissue massage of the quadricep musclesPhysiotherapy for a pulled muscle
A person with a pulled muscle will benefit from physiotherapy treatment. Your physiotherapist at Manchester Physio will conduct a thorough physical examination to assess your current functional ability and develop a treatment programme which will be centred on:
- Reducing pain
- Reducing swelling
- Improving range of movement
- Improving muscle strength
- Improving balance
- Facilitating recovery
Above: Rolling soft tissue massage of the quadricep musclesPhysiotherapy treatment at Manchester Physio will be suited to you, to enhance your recovery and return to sport. A personalised treatment program will be developed which may include:
- Pain management including anti-inflammatories and ICE
- Ultrasound to accelerate healing
- Gradual muscle stretching to regain pain free range of movement as soon as possible
- Soft tissue massage to relieve pain and stiffness
- Muscle strengthening exercises
- Aerobic exercises
- Functional retraining tailored to everyday activities and sport
- Advice on graded return to activity
- Preventing re-injury
Above: Hacking percusion massage of the hamstring musclesYour physiotherapist at Manchester Physio will also provide support and advice on how to return to normal physical activity as soon as possible and reduce the likelihood of re-injury. Your physiotherapist at Manchester Physio will also set short and long term goals to ensure that you get the most out of your treatment and continue to make long term improvements.
For more information about how physiotherapy can help a pulled muscle, or to book an appointment please call 0161 883 0077.
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