When you experience a pulled muscle or muscle strain, it's natural to wonder about the nature of the pain and how to distinguish it from other injuries. A pulled muscle, also known as a muscle strain, can sometimes feel like a sharp, sudden pain, especially during the initial injury. However, the sensation can vary depending on the severity of the strain. Identifying whether the pain is sharp, dull, or throbbing can help determine the extent of the injury and guide you in choosing the proper treatment.
For same-day sports injury treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care South Plainfield. Our urgent care center is open 7 days a week and provides quality urgent care with no appointments required.
What Causes Muscle Strain?
Muscle strain, or a pulled muscle, occurs when muscle fibers are overstretched or torn due to excessive force or stress. This can happen during sudden, intense movements, such as lifting heavy objects, playing sports, or engaging in strenuous physical exercise. Common causes of muscle strain include poor warm-up before activity, improper technique, fatigue, or muscle overuse. Additionally, muscle imbalances, lack of flexibility, and inadequate rest between workouts can increase the risk of muscle strain.
What Are The Signs and Symptoms of a Pulled Muscle?
The signs and symptoms of a pulled muscle can vary depending on the severity of the strain, but they typically include:
- Pain: The most immediate symptom ranges from mild to severe. This pain is often sharp or sudden at the moment of injury and may persist as a dull ache afterward
- Swelling and bruising: In some cases, the injured area may become swollen, and bruising may appear due to torn muscle fibers or small blood vessel damage
- Limited range of motion: A pulled muscle can restrict movement, making it difficult to stretch or use the affected muscle fully
- Muscle spasms: The muscle may contract involuntarily, causing spasms or tightness in the area
- Weakness: The muscle may feel weak, making it challenging to perform tasks that require strength or control in that area
- Tenderness: Touching the strained muscle may cause tenderness or discomfort
How is a Muscle Strain Diagnosed?
Muscle strain is typically diagnosed through a physical examination and a patient's medical history review. Here's how the process usually works:
1. Medical history: Your doctor will ask about the circumstances of the injury, including how it happened, when the pain started, and the activities involved. This helps determine whether the pain is likely caused by a muscle strain or another type of injury.
2. Physical examination: The doctor will palpate (feel) the affected area to assess for signs of swelling, tenderness, or muscle spasms. They may also ask you to move the muscle or perform specific actions to gauge the range of motion and identify pain points.
3. Imaging tests: In some cases, if the strain seems severe or if there is concern about more serious injury (such as a tear), the doctor may recommend imaging tests like an X-ray or MRI. These tests help rule out fractures or detect more extensive muscle damage.
Get Rapid Injury Treatment at AFC Urgent Care South Plainfield
If you experience severe pain, swelling, or difficulty moving the affected muscle, it's essential to seek medical attention promptly. Visiting an urgent care center can provide quick access to professional evaluation and treatment, ensuring you receive the appropriate care to prevent further injury. Whether it's for pain management, an accurate diagnosis, or guidance on rehabilitation, AFC Urgent Care South Plainfield is here and equipped to help you recover and get back to your regular activities safely. We accept most health insurance plans and provide low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about injury treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (908) 222-3500.
