Muscle Strain

• A muscle strain or a pulled muscle occurs when a muscle is suddenly pulled or twisted, which causes a tiny tear in the muscle. Pulled muscles occur more frequently and more easily when muscles are not warmed up or stretched properly before a work out. This may happen because the muscle is being overused. Strains are more likely to occur in the legs, arms and back.

• Your muscle may hurt and it may possibly be swollen. You may not be able to move the area on your body where it hurts due to the pain and swelling in your muscle. In such a case, an x-ray of the injured area may be needed to rule out the possibility of a broken bone. The healing process usually takes 2 to 4 weeks, but in the case of a bad strain, it can take up to 6 weeks. While the strain is healing, a splint or brace may be needed to protect the injured area.