We know as muscle strain the partial or complete breakage of the muscle fibers, which break, in greater or lesser quantity, depending on the violence of the movement that causes the injury. The tear can be so small that it can only be diagnosed and seen through a microscope or ultrasound, or it can be so severe that it causes internal bleeding due to massive rupture of muscle fibers.
At the time of injury, the affected muscle fibers retract, forming a space between the broken ends. Sometimes, in addition to these fibers being affected, surrounding structures such as connective tissue (tendons) or blood vessels can also be involved. Involvement of blood vessels shows the existence of a hematoma in the affected area.
Efforts and sports practice without prior training or preparation can subject the muscle to a situation in which it is subjected to a stretch capable of contracting or even tearing it.
The muscles are composed of a large number of muscle fibers which are grouped surrounded by a membrane external, these fibers are organized in groups called fascicles and finally fascicles are grouped to form the muscle. In addition to these fibers, nerves and blood vessels pass through muscles.
The consequence of a muscle strain is that the muscle hardens while pains appear that can intensify spasmodically. In the case of presenting a muscle strain, in general, those affected should immediately terminate sports activity. If they don't, there is a danger that the muscle strain will progress to a fibrillar rupture or more serious injury.
Symptoms of swelling include trouble moving, skin discoloration (bruising), and swelling. As first aid in cases of distension, experts recommend the application of ice covered by a cloth to reduce inflammation, always avoiding direct contact with the skin; the ideal time to maximize its effect is around 15 minutes, with intervals of one hour during the first day and 3-4 hours with respect to the second.
Once the first three days have passed since the muscle strain, you can proceed to alternate between applying heat and cold to treat pain. Furthermore, it is essential to rest and avoid work on the affected muscle whenever possible. With regard to posture, it is always recommended to keep the limb raised and immobilized. As the pain begins to subside, it is possible to gradually resume normal body activity.
The most severe cases are usually characterized by the inability to move the torn limb, or by bleeding from the injury. To deal with these extreme situations, it is not recommended to comply with home procedures, but to contact an emergency service for specialized medical assistance.
