Strains happen when a muscle is stretched or forced to contract beyond what it can handle, often during sport, lifting or a sudden movement.
About muscle strains
Mild strains involve a small number of fibres and heal within a couple of weeks. More significant tears take longer and need careful rehabilitation to restore strength.
Common causes
- Sudden acceleration, lifting or twisting
- Fatigue and poor warm-up
- Previous injury in the same muscle
- Sudden increase in training
Signs and symptoms
- Sudden pain during activity
- Tenderness and sometimes bruising
- Pain when stretching or using the muscle
- Weakness
How physiotherapy helps
- Early protection and pain-free movement
- Soft tissue treatment and massage once healing allows
- Progressive strengthening
- Return-to-sport or work drills
- Advice to reduce future strains
How long does recovery take?
Mild strains often recover in one to three weeks; moderate strains in four to eight weeks.
When to see a doctor
Seek urgent care for a calf that becomes hot, swollen and painful without a clear injury, as this can be a blood clot. Also seek advice for large bruising or a visible gap in the muscle.
Book an assessment for muscle strains in Ilford.
Common questions
Heat or ice for a pulled muscle?
Ice can help pain in the first couple of days; after that, gentle heat and movement usually feel better.
Should I massage a pulled muscle?
Not hard in the first few days. Gentle massage later in recovery can help.
How do I know if it is serious?
Severe pain, a pop, large bruising or being unable to use the muscle are signs to get it assessed.
Last updated .