About a Muscle strain
- A muscle strain (or tear) occurs when the demand on a muscle exceeds its capacity.
- A strain is graded generally between Grade 1 – a stretch and micro tear of muscle fibres, up to a Grade 3 – a complete rupture of the muscle.
- History of having a previous muscle strain increases the risk of future strains and therefore management should occur to reduce the likelihood of reinjury.
- Strength training can significantly reduce injury risk; such as the Nordic hamstring exercise which has been shown to reduce hamstring re-injuries by 85%.
What can I do now? (before seeing a physio)
- “P.O.L.I.C.E”: Protection, Optimal Loading, Ice, Compression, and Elevation
- Optimal loading = gentle pain free movement and weight bearing.
- Gentle PAIN FREE stretching
- Avoid heat, massage, or strenuous activity for 48-72 hours
What can we do to help?
- Bodycare Physiotherapists are highly trained in managing muscle strains and are up to date with the latest research on treatment strategies and healing physiology.
- Your physiotherapist will determine the grade of strain and biomechanical factors which most likely contributing to sustaining your injury.
- Treatment will depend on the timeframe, severity and individual patient goals.
- This will generally progress from managing pain, swelling and improving movement, towards end stage return to sport rehab such as sprinting, jumping and changing direction.
