Avoid, Treat Pulled Muscles

A pulled muscle affects all of us, from the light activity-goer to professional athletes. Though typically not a severe injury, a pulled muscle can nag and sideline you from an activity or sport. Taking steps to treat it properly and avoid it altogether can help you stay in the game.

A pulled muscle occurs when the muscle is strained, or stretched too far, and small tears occur within the muscle. The hamstring is commonly strained, which can hinder you from performing a variety of activities, including running, walking, and jumping.

Muscle strains usually can be treated without seeing a doctor. Avoiding strenuous activities and resting allows the strain to heal, while ice can help reduce the pain and bleeding of the muscle.

To help avoid muscle strains, follow these guidelines:

• Stretch to warm up the muscles before an activity.
• Warm up before an activity. For example, jogging lightly or playing catch. Avoid jumping into an activity with tight muscles.
• Listen to your body to avoid muscle fatigue. As your muscles weaken during activity, you become more susceptible to a strain and other injuries.
• Maintain strength. Stronger muscles are less likely to become strained.

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