Muscle strains can happen while playing sports, hiking, running, or while performing everyday activities. They are often referred to as a pulled muscle and are caused when a muscle becomes too stretched, leaving you with a sharp pain that causes swelling and discomfort.

There are varying degrees of pain associated with muscle strains, from minimal discomfort to severe swelling. However, the good news is that these injuries can be treated within the comfort of your own home. 

Our sports medicine experts say that resting for a few days after a muscle strain will help to limit pain as well as prevent any further damage. Ice can be used to help reduce pain, whereas heat can be used to help loosen up the muscle. Anti-inflammatory medication can also be used to reduce pain as well as swelling. 

To help prevent muscle strains from occurring, make sure you perform stretching exercises before participating in any activity or sport. Also be sure to avoid overdoing exercise, since many muscle strains occur when you are fatigued and worn down.

To learn more about muscle strains and other sports-related injuries, call our sports medicine experts at Tahoe Forest Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at (530) 587-7461 or make an appointment request.