A strain can happen in any muscle or tendon and can cause pain. It may also limit movement in the affected muscle group. A muscle strain usually occurs when undue pressure is put on muscles in our daily activities.

Minor injuries can only over-stretch the muscle or its tendon whereas severe injuries can lead to a partial or complete tear of the tendon.

The common signs and symptoms depend on the severity of a muscle strain which is as follows:

• Sudden pain or tenderness
• Swelling, bruising, or redness
• Soreness
• Pain even at rest
• Pain when the specific muscle is in use
• A ‘knotted-up’ feeling
• Inability to use the muscle, limited motion
• Muscle weakness
• Muscle spasms or cramps

An acute strain can occur when your muscle tears suddenly which can happen while jumping, running, slipping, or lifting something heavy. An acute strain may occur as a result of: –

• Poor flexibility
• Over-exertion
• Fatigue
• Poor conditioning

Not warming up before any physical activity