Pulled Muscle Symptoms
Guidelines for Treating Pulled Muscle Symptoms
Working out has some really great results, with buff muscles and a tight physique; but there is one result that is less than great; pulled muscle symptoms. The symptoms arise after the muscles that are being worked are not warmed up properly before exercising them, and can create intense pain for the individual.
When a muscle is cold or is allowed to go virtually unused for any period of time, it is possible to cause damage to the fibers in the muscle when it is suddenly called into action. An unexpected movement that requires quick action on the muscle and can result in a tear of the muscle fibers; it can be a tear so small that it is invisible to all but the most sophisticated equipment or it can be a severe tear that develops into a muscle rupture. This happens because these movements, which may seem to be innocuous enough when performed, can force the muscle to stretch further than it is able.
The muscular system is an extensive one; extending throughout our body from our toes to our head. The purpose of the muscle is to provide us with mobility through contraction; muscles allow us to bend, twist, reach, sit, stand, walk, turn our heads; virtually every movement we make is performed by the muscular structure working in conjunction with other body systems. We tend to take the automation of these movements for granted, not giving it much thought until pain or inability to move as we are accustomed occurs. The disuse of the many muscles in our body leads to limited mobility, weight gain, distorted posture and other conditions.
Yet another way that muscles can be injured is through overuse of the muscle. Putting too much demand on the same set of muscles in a short period of time creates muscle fatigue, and when fatigued, the muscle faces more risk of being strained. There are some areas of the body that are more likely to become strained: the hamstrings, the back, the calves and the groin.
One of the most common injuries to occur to the muscle is a strain, or pulled muscle. Symptoms of the injury can vary, depending on the location of the muscle and the degree of the strain. Typical symptoms, however, often include:
*Discomfort, ranging from mild soreness to severe pain
*Local swelling and feverish feel to the skin
*Bruising
These symptoms may be felt immediately by the individual, or it may not occur for several hours.
Treating the symptoms of muscle strain is important to avoid further damage to the muscle. The treatment method of R.I.C.E. is strongly recommended; Rest the area; Ice the area, Compress the area, and Elevate the area. In addition, an anti-inflammatory drug may be helpful to alleviate pain and discomfort. As the muscle shows signs of improvement, begin integrating stretching and strengthening exercises to slowly bring the muscle back into action. When returning to normal activities, do so gradually so as not to put too much demand on the muscle too quickly.
Prevention, of course, is the best course of action to avoid dealing with muscle strain and pulled muscles symptoms. It is important to devote at least a small portion of each day performing some type of exercise for the muscles to retain strength and health, as exercise has multiple benefits for every age group. Stretching before activities, proper performance of activities and stopping when the muscles are tired are key components to keeping healthy muscles.
Working out and exercising is a great activity for anyone, but proper techniques must be followed to avoid incurring pulled muscle symptoms. The benefits will be a healthy body that works to its optimal expectations.