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Strains

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Alternative Names:

Pulled muscle

First Aid:

• Apply ice immediately to reduce swelling. Wrap the ice in cloth -- avoid using ice directly on the skin. Apply ice for 10 to 15 minutes every 1 hour for the first day. Then, every 3 to 4 hours.
• Use ice for the first 3 days. After that, either heat or ice may be helpful.
• Rest the pulled muscle for at least a day. If possible, keep the pulled muscle elevated above the level of the heart.
• Avoid using a strained muscle while it is still painful. When the pain subsides, start activity slowly and in moderation.

Call immediately for emergency medical assistance if:

• You are unable to move the muscle.
• The injury is bleeding.

Call your doctor if the pain does not go away after several weeks.

References:

DeLee JC, Drez D Jr, Miller MD, eds. DeLee and Drez’s Orthopaedic Sports Medicine. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders; 2003.

Frontera, WR, Silver JK, eds. Essentials of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. 1st ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Hanley & Belfus; 2002.

Marx JA, Hockberger RS, Walls RM, eds. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 5th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2002.

• Review Date: 5/6/2007
• Reviewed By: Thomas N. Joseph, MD, Private Practice specializing in Orthopaedics, subspecialty Foot and Ankle, Camden Bone & Joint, Camden, SC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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