How to Treat a Torn Muscle
- Method 1 Treating Minor Muscle Injuries. Rest the muscle. For either a first or second-degree injury, medical care is...
- Method 2 Reducing Pain with Medicine. Take an NSAID for pain relief. Non-steroidal anti-infammatory drugs, also known as...
- Method 3 Getting Medical Attention. Get a diagnosis. Many minor tears will heal on their own with the...
Can a torn muscle ever fully recover?
Yes, a torn muscle can repair itself, to an extent. A little help is required to achieve complete and healthy healing of a torn muscle. A torn muscle cannot completely repair itself, as the torn muscle fibres get replaced with scar tissue, which does not provide the same amount of strength and flexibility.
How can I heal a torn muscle faster?
- Heat. Don’t use a heating pad or take a hot bath.
- Alcohol. Don’t drink alcohol because this can increase the bleeding and swelling. ...
- Running. Don’t run or do any other strenuous activities that might worsen your injury.
- Massage. Don’t get a massage or massage the injured area because this can cause more bleeding and swelling.
Do you need to go the hospital for torn muscle?
Some muscle pain can even be a sign of a critical problem, requiring you to seek emergency help. Experts recommend that you call 911 or go to the hospital for immediate help if you have any of these symptoms in addition to your muscle pain: Extreme muscle weakness or paralysis of any part of your body
What is the best medicine for pulled muscle?
Treating a Pulled Muscle
- Rest. Rest is recommended for the early recovery phase, lasting one to five days depending on the severity of the injury.
- Ice. Ice application helps reduce swelling, bleeding, and pain. ...
- Anti-Inflammatory Medications. ...
- Gentle Stretching. ...
- Strengthening. ...
- Heat Applications. ...
- Avoid Muscle Fatigue. ...
- Warm up Properly. ...
Can a muscle tear heal on its own?
Most muscle strains do not require surgery, and a full recovery is expected. If there is a partial tear then the athlete can return when they are pain free and have normal strength and motion. This usually occurs following anywhere from a few weeks to a few months of appropriate treatment and therapy.
What is the best treatment for a torn muscle?
approach — rest, ice, compression, elevation:Rest. Avoid activities that cause pain, swelling or discomfort. ... Ice. Even if you're seeking medical help, ice the area immediately. ... Compression. To help stop swelling, compress the area with an elastic bandage until the swelling stops. ... Elevation.
How long does it take for a torn muscle to heal?
Recovery time depends on the severity of the injury. For a mild strain, you may be able to return to normal activities within three to six weeks with basic home care. For more severe strains, recovery can take several months. In severe cases, surgical repair and physical therapy may be necessary.
How is muscle tear curable?
Rest the strained muscle. Avoid the activities that caused the strain and other activities that are painful. Ice the muscle area (20 minutes every hour while awake). Ice is a very effective anti-inflammatory and pain-reliever.
How can you tell if you have torn a muscle?
Signs and symptoms will vary, depending on the severity of the injury, and may include:Pain or tenderness.Redness or bruising.Limited motion.Muscle spasms.Swelling.Muscle weakness.
How do you diagnose a muscle tear?
If a doctor suspects a muscle strain, they will perform a physical examination and ask a person about their symptom history. They may also order imaging studies, such as X-rays, to make sure that the bone has not broken. As part of the diagnosis, a doctor will usually designate the injury as a grade 1, 2, or 3 strain.
What is the difference between a pulled muscle and a torn muscle?
A muscle strain is an injury that occurs when a muscle or a tendon is overstretched. A muscle tear is when a muscle or a tendon is overstretched and it tears.
Is it OK to massage a torn muscle?
Massage. Therapeutic massage helps loosen tight muscles and increase blood flow to help heal damaged tissues. Applying pressure to the injured muscle tissue also helps remove excess fluid and cellular waste products. A 2012 study found that massage immediately following an injury may even speed strained muscle healing.
How can I speed up muscle tear recovery?
Read on for seven tips for muscle injury recovery that will speed up or improve your recovery.Stay Hydrated. ... Reduce Inflammation With Cherry Juice. ... Increase or Improve Sleep. ... Compress the Affected Muscle. ... Switch to Low-Impact Exercise During Injury Recovery. ... Up Your Protein Intake. ... Limit Alcohol and/or Tobacco Consumption.
What doctor treats muscle pain?
If you have muscle pain as the result of an injury or condition, or even if you have no idea how it started, schedule an appointment with an orthopedic physician at the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine.
Is heat good for muscle strain?
Heat is often best for tight muscles, sore muscles, as well as the stiffness and pain associated with arthritis. Heat can also be used following an acute injury to increase blood flow once the swelling has subsided. Remember, though, that applying heat too soon following an acute injury can increase swelling.
What is a doctor that specializes in muscles?
Orthopedic surgeons are doctors who specialize in the musculoskeletal system - the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles that are so essential to movement and everyday life. With more than 200 bones in the human body, it's an in-demand specialty.
What is the difference between a pulled muscle and a torn muscle?
A muscle strain is an injury that occurs when a muscle or a tendon is overstretched. A muscle tear is when a muscle or a tendon is overstretched and it tears.
Should you massage a muscle tear?
Massage. Therapeutic massage helps loosen tight muscles and increase blood flow to help heal damaged tissues. Applying pressure to the injured muscle tissue also helps remove excess fluid and cellular waste products. A 2012 study found that massage immediately following an injury may even speed strained muscle healing.
Is heat good for a pulled muscle?
A pulled muscle should first be treated using the R.I.C.E. method. During the first 72 hours, heat should be avoided to prevent increased swelling and inflammation. After about 72 hours, heat can be incorporated into treatment to increase blood flow and aid the overall healing process.
How do you speed up muscle recovery?
How to Speed Up Your Recovery After a Tough WorkoutDrink a lot of water. Hydrating after a workout is key to recovery. ... Get enough sleep. Getting proper rest is easily one of the most effective ways to recover from any form or degree of physical exertion. ... Eat nutritious food. ... Massage.
I have a gluteal tear and have been going to PT for two months, twice weekly. I'm not much better. W...
Physical therapy generally takes a long time. Perhaps you are making improvements that you do not notice. Talk with your primary care doctor.
I was pushing real hard and felt something in my calf pop. Could it be an inner muscle puncture?
Muscles generally do not puncture unless being stabbed by a sharp object. The muscle likely just moved. Talk with your primary care doctor.
I have pain radiating from around my left shoulder blade to my left arm, what could it be?
The pain radiating from your shoulder down to your left arm might actually be the result of a pinched nerve in your neck. Pinched nerves occur when...
What to eat to heal a torn muscle?
Eat foods that contain a lot of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, antioxidants, and protein to speed up the healing process. Some foods that would help include: citrus fruits, sweet potatoes, blueberries, chicken, walnuts, and many more.
What to do if you can't get the injury above your heart?
If you can't get the injury above your heart, try to at least keep it parallel to the ground.
How to wrap a calf?
To wrap the affected area, start wrapping at the furthest point from your heart and move inwards towards your body. For example, if your injury is in your bicep, then start wrapping near your elbow and move upwards towards your armpit. If your injury is in the lower part of your calf, then start wrapping your leg near your ankle and move upwards towards your knee.
Does ice help with hematoma?
The ice will decrease the internal bleeding (hematoma), swelling, inflammation, and discomfort.
Can you walk with a tear in your arm?
You should still be able to walk and/or move your arms. If you cannot do this, then your tear may be severe. You should see your healthcare provider.
Who do you see for a tear in your thigh?
Depending on the type of tear, you may need to see an orthopedist or other specialist.
Can you treat a torn muscle at home?
It is easy to overdo it and end up with a torn muscle or sprained ligament. If you play any type of sport or have children who do, you have probably had to administer first aid at some point. You can usually treat minor injuries at home using basic first aid and over the counter medicine, but you may need to seek medical attention for a more serious injury.
What Is a Torn Muscle?
Torn muscle or muscle strain refers to a partial or complete rupture of the fibers of the muscle, causing pain or inability to move a particular part of the body.
How to treat a pulled muscle?
A pulled muscle or a first degree tear can be easily treated at home with cold compresses and rest for a week , followed by progressive mobilization. A partially torn muscle is better treated by at least a primary care physician, who can assess the severity of the tear and decide upon a conservative or surgical treatment.
What is muscle tear?
Types of Muscle Tear. Depending on the amount of torn muscle, muscle tear can be: Pulled muscle or a first degree strain: only a small number of myofibrils are torn, resulting in a protective spasm of the affected muscle, and painful movement.
How long does it take for a torn muscle to heal?
However, caution must be excised regarding excessive strain on the affected muscle for 2-3 months to allow the muscle tissue to heal completely. Progressive physiotherapy in the form of range of motion, isometric, and isotonic exercises should be started to prevent shortening or weakening of the affected muscle due to prolonged immobilization.
What is a second degree muscle torn?
Partially torn muscle or a second degree strain: a part of the muscle mass is torn, resulting in severe pain, weakness and spasm of the affected muscle, but movement is still possible. Completely torn muscle or a third degree strain: there is no continuity of muscle fibers, resulting in a complete loss of movement with antagonistic action, ...
What is the muscle bundle?
Each muscle consists of multiple muscle bundles (fascicles), containing muscle cells or fibers. Each fiber contains several myofibrils, and this from several myofilaments, which can contract or relax, depending on the type of signal given by the brain.
What is the balance of the opposing muscles?
The muscles are grouped into the ones that bring about a particular action and the ones that do the opposite action. It is the balanced action of the opposing muscles that brings about smooth movement of the body parts. In the absence of this antagonistic action of muscles, the concerned part either becomes fixed or shows jerky movements, like that of a robot.
How to prevent muscle tears?
In most cases, muscles tears are preventable by observing proper warm-up techniques and never forcing a cold muscle to perform full tilt. Using the proper form in any activity is also critical to maintaining healthy muscles. Know your body’s limits. When it comes to pushing your body to the extreme, there’s no such thing as “no pain no gain.” In fact, pain often is the first sign that a muscle has been injured. Get to know your body and understand its signals. This is the best way to not only avoid injury, but to ensure continued peak performance.
What is the treatment for a minor strain?
– that’s Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation – treatment for injuries. Your orthopedist may also recommend NSAIDs – non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – to help reduce swelling.
What is a muscle tear?
Torn muscles can occur any time your muscle becomes strained or overstretched. This can happen as a result of exhaustion and fatigue, improper use, or overuse. While any muscle can be affected, torn muscles most often occur in the lower back, neck, shoulder and hamstring.
How long does it take for a muscle tear to heal?
Moderate tears may require physical therapy. A severe tear that requires surgical repair can take months or longer to heal.
What percentage of muscle fibers are torn?
Torn muscles are categorized by the severity of the injury: mild which is a simple strain affecting 5% of a muscle’s fibers; moderate which is up to 25%-30% and accompanied by swelling, decreased range of motion and pain; and severe which is an actual tear in a muscle that is accompanied by extensive swelling.
How do you know if you have a torn muscle?
Symptoms of Torn Muscles. When you tear a muscle, even when it is mild, you will know immediately. Expect pain and soreness, as well as spasms and swelling in the affected area. Depending on the severity of the strain, you may find it difficult to move the area, if at all.
What is the most common injury that happens when you are trying to get in shape?
Aches, sprains and soreness are common when one is trying to get in shape. However, muscle tears (also referred to as strains) can be more problematic.
What Are The Symptoms and Treatment of Torn Muscle?
Muscle tears are a common injury that can happen to anyone, from athletes to older people.
What does a doctor do if you have a torn muscle?
The doctor will examine your medical history and perform a physical exam to establish whether the muscle is partially or completely torn.
How to Prevent Muscle Tears?
It is, of course, always preferred to prevent torn muscle over treatment of the injury and rehabilitation.
What is a muscle tear?
Muscle tear is damage to a muscle or its attaching tendons that occurs due to pressure to muscles. It can happen either during sports or performing various everyday activities, with sudden heavy lifting or the overuse of the muscles.
How does muscle damage affect the body?
Muscle damage can affect both muscle fibers and the tendons attached to the muscle as well as small blood vessels .
How severe is a torn muscle?
This depends on the severity of the injury of the muscle fibers, mild affecting 5% or less of the muscle's fibers, moderate around 30%, and with such symptoms as pain, swelling, and decreased range of motions.
What are the symptoms of a torn calf?
Whether it's a torn calf, hamstring tear, abdominal muscle strain, or any other body part, muscle tear symptoms include spasms, swelling, pain, and soreness of the affected area .
What is the best way to treat muscle strain?
For immediate self-care of a muscle strain, try the R.I.C.E. approach — rest, ice, compression, elevation:
What is the best treatment for a sprained limb?
Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) can be helpful for pain relief during this time period. A physical therapist can help you to maximize stability and strength of the injured joint or limb. Your doctor may suggest that you immobilize the area with a brace or splint.
What to look for in a physical exam for a ruptured tendon?
Diagnosis. During the physical exam, your doctor will check for swelling and points of tenderness. The location and intensity of your pain can help determine the extent and nature of the damage. In more severe injuries, where the muscle or tendon has been completely ruptured, your doctor may be able to see or feel a defect in the area of injury.
How long after muscle strain can you take ibuprofen?
Some doctors recommend avoiding over-the-counter pain medications that can increase your risk of bleeding — such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve) — during the first 48 hours after a muscle strain. Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) can be helpful for pain relief during this time period.
Who to refer to for orthopedic surgery?
While you may initially consult your family physician, he or she may refer you to a doctor who specializes in sports medicine or orthopedic surgery.
What is the best way to treat a torn muscle?
Cold Compresses. One of the best things that is in your hands to perform and leads to proper treatment of the torn muscle is that of application of cold compresses . This can either be in the form of an ice bag or the ready cold compresses bags available in the market.
How to treat torn muscles?
However, it should be very slow if you do not want the pain to worsen. Overdoing of stretching exercises will only lengthen the treatment of torn muscles.
Is it better to sleep or rest after a torn muscle?
The pain and discomfort associated with a torn muscle is unbearable in many cases. There is nothing better than taking proper bed rest to enhance the treatment process. Making movements can actually worsen the situation further. It is best that you make gentle and limited movements throughout the day. The leftover time should be given to proper sleep and rest to ensure faster recovery.
Can you take anti inflammatory medication for torn muscle?
In case of severe pain, it is always recommended that you consult your doctor and ask them to advice some anti inflammatory medications for the torn muscle. Taking the right dosage for the time period that has been advised will definitely help in the treatment of the muscle wear. Make sure you do not take an over dose as it might lead to side effects. Herein, consulting a professional is the best thing that should not be ignored.
What is the best treatment for a torn muscle?
Anti-inflammatory pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil) or aspirin can help reduce swelling and pain. Physical therapy may also be needed. Surgery is the typical treatment for torn or ruptured muscles. You and your doctor will discuss all surgical or nonsurgical options available to repair your muscle.
What to do if you have a muscle tear?
Talk to your doctor about what steps you can take to avoid muscle strains if you experience them regularly. If you have a muscle tear that requires surgery, medication or physical therapy may be necessary after your procedure. Your doctor will provide specific follow-up instructions based on the type and severity of your injury.
How to prevent muscle strains from recurring?
There are several ways you can prevent a muscle strain from recurring, including: allowing for proper time to heal from an injury. stretching your muscles daily. cross-training for sports by weightlifting or choosing another activity to strengthen your muscles. warming up before exercise or intense activity.
Why does my muscle feel like it's stretched?
Poor conditioning, fatigue, and an improper warmup can lead to a muscle strain. When muscle strain occurs, people often report a popping or snapping sensation. This is the feeling of the muscle tissue being stretched until it snaps. This is often a very painful experience.
How to reduce swelling in a muscle?
Compress your muscle by applying a steady, gentle pressure on it. This prevents swelling and inflammation, which delay healing. Wrapping an elastic bandage around the affected muscle is best. Elevate the injury above your heart to reduce swelling. Use pillows or other devices to raise an affected limb while you rest.
How to heal a strained muscle?
This can help strained muscles and other injuries. Ice your muscle by using cold packs with a barrier between them and your skin four to eight times per day for 20 minutes at a time.
What is the most common treatment for muscle strains?
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), the most common and effective treatment for muscle strains is the RICE method . The individual letters of RICE stand for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. In particular, RICE involves the following:
Overview
A muscle strain is an injury to one of your muscles that causes it to tear. They’re one of the most common injuries, especially among athletes.
Diagnosis and Tests
Your healthcare provider will diagnose a muscle strain with a physical exam. Make sure to tell them what you were doing when you first noticed your symptoms. Because muscle strains come from physical activities, it’s important they know what led to yours.
Management and Treatment
You can treat most muscle strains with at-home methods of first aid, including:
Prevention
The best way to prevent muscle strains is to stretch and warm up before exercising. Increasing your overall flexibility will also protect your muscles from future injuries. The more flexible you are, the more room your muscle fibers have to stretch before they begin to tear.
Living With
Talk to your healthcare provider right away if you’re experiencing severe symptoms like intense pain. If you’re still feeling pain after a few weeks of at-home treatments, talk to your provider.
What is a torn calf muscle?
A torn calf muscle is an injury that causes a partial or complete tear in the muscles behind your shin bone. A calf muscle tear usually causes sudden, intense calf pain and may prevent you from walking or bearing weight on your leg. Calf muscle tears usually heal with conservative treatments, but sometimes require surgery.
What do you need to keep your injury immobilized?
You may also need to keep your injury immobilized and protected by wearing a soft cast or boot. Some people need crutches or an assistive device to move around as their injury heals.
Why do calf muscles tear?
Your calf muscles are at especially high risk for tears because of their location between two joints — the ankle and the knee. These muscles also have very tight muscle fibers, making them prone to overstretching injuries.
What muscles do you use to rest between games?
Allowing your calf muscles to rest and recover between games, practices or workouts.
How long do you have to stay in the hospital after a calf tear?
You may need to stay in the hospital for a few days after your procedure.
How to stop calf pain?
Rest: Once you feel calf pain, stop doing physical activity and rest your leg. Don’t push through pain, which can make the problem worse. You might be required to use crutches or wear a boot for several days.
How to reduce swelling in calf?
Compression: Apply a compression wrap or sleeve to your calf. Compression helps reduce blood flow to the painful area and minimize swelling.
