You’ve probably pulled a muscle before, whether it was from sneezing too hard or bending the wrong way when picking up a heavy package or box. If you haven’t pulled a muscle before, lucky you, but it will probably happen at some point in your lifetime.

When it does, it’s important to be informed about this irritating injury! Our AFC Urgent Care Bronx Webster Ave. shares some helpful information about pulled muscles and muscle strains below, so keep reading!

What Is a Pulled Muscle?

A pulled muscle, or a muscle strain, happens when your muscle is overstretched or torn. A pulled muscle usually occurs as a result of fatigue, overuse or improper use of a specific muscle.

Strains can happen to any muscle on the body, but they’re most common in the lower back, neck, shoulder and hamstring. We’ve listed the common signs of muscle strains below.

Signs of Muscle Strain

• Sudden onset of pain
• Soreness
• Limited range of movement
• Bruising or discoloration
• Swelling
• A “knotted-up” feeling
• Muscle spasms
• Stiffness
• Weakness

Are All Muscle Strains the Same?

Nope, they aren’t. Some muscle strains can be minor, while some can be quite severe. Severe muscle strains, usually signified by a “popping” sound from your muscle, will require medical attention to get better.

Some muscle strains may even require surgery if they are severe enough. We’ve identified the types of muscle strains below.

Muscle Strain Grades

• Grade 1—This is a mild strain, with only a few muscle fibers being stretched or torn. Although the injured muscle is tender and painful, it has normal strength.
• Grade 2—This is a moderate strain, with a greater number of injured fibers and more severe muscle pain and tenderness. There is also mild swelling, noticeable loss of strength and sometimes a bruise.
  
• Grade 3—This serious strain tears the muscle all the way through, sometimes causing a “pop” sensation as the muscle rips into two separate pieces or shears away from its specific tendon. If you experience this sensation, seek emergency medical care.

Have you pulled a muscle? If so, don’t hesitate to visit our AFC Urgent Care Bronx Webster Ave. team to get the treatment you need today!