Muscle Sprains

Muscle sprains are one of the most common injuries in sports and everyday life. Although often considered minor, properly diagnosed and managed is critical to avoiding complications and returning to activities quickly.

Muscle sprains are injuries that occur when muscle fibers are overstretched or ruptured due to overloading or sudden movement. These injuries can range from mild stretching to complete ruptures of muscle fibers. The degree of rupture also determines the severity of the injury.

Muscle sprains can occur in both amateur and professional athletes, regardless of gender or age, although they are more common in people with a history of similar injuries.

Some muscles are more prone to fractures due to their function and the loads they receive, including:

• Gastro calf (Gastrocnemius muscle)
• Posterior femurs (biceps)
• Hip abductors
• Biceps and triceps arm
• Broad dorsal and trapezoidal in strength sports.

Muscle sprains are classified into three grades depending on their severity:

• First degree: Slight stretching or slight rupture of a few muscle fibers. It causes mild pain and minimal swelling.
• Second degree: Partial rupture of more muscle fibers, with moderate pain, swelling and limitation of functionality.
• Third degree: Complete muscle rupture, with severe pain, significant swelling, hematoma and complete loss of function.

Muscle sprains are mainly caused by:

• Insufficient warm-up: Lack of proper warm-up increases the risk of injury.
• Excessive strain: Intense or prolonged exercise without adequate rest can lead to a strain.
• Poor technique: Incorrectly performing exercises or using inappropriate equipment increases the risk.
• Previous injuries: Muscles that have suffered previous sprains are more prone to re-injury.

The symptoms caused by muscle sprains vary depending on the extent of the injury. It generally manifests itself:

• Sudden and acute pain which is often described as “pulling”
• Local swelling and sensitivity to palpation
• Ecchymosis (bruising) a few hours later
• Spasm or feeling of “gripping” the muscle
• Restriction of movement or complete inability to contract.

In third-degree fractures, a dent in the muscle can be felt or a deformity can be seen.

Diagnosis is based on clinical examination and possibly additional imaging tests. During the clinical examination, the patient’s history and symptoms are evaluated by the orthopedist. In severe cases, an ultrasound or MRI may be requested to assess the extent of the lesion.

Treatment depends on the degree of strain. In muscle fractures of the first and second degree, conservative treatment is usually applied. The initial treatment follows the R.I.C.E. protocol.

Rest: Stopping any activity that causes pain

Ice: Apply locally every 3-4 hours for the first 2 24 hours

Compression: Elastic bandage to reduce swelling

Elevation: Elevation of the injured limb.

After the acute stage, a personalized physiotherapy program begins to reduce inflammation and gradually strengthen the limb with isometric and isotonic exercises. Medication with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is also administered only for a few days, as their prolonged use seems to slow down healing.

In complete ruptures, i.e. third-degree muscle fractures, surgery may be required to suture the muscle, followed by a rehabilitation program. The surgeries that are applied in the majority of cases are arthroscopic, i.e. minimally invasive. Thus, athletes (and not only) are given the opportunity to return, as quickly as possible, to an active daily routine.

The recovery time varies:

• First Degree: 7-10 days.
• Second degree: 2-3 weeks.
• Third degree: From 6 weeks to several months, depending on the treatment applied and the patient’s response.

Without the proper treatment plan in place, muscle sprains can lead to:

• Chronic pain and discomfort in the area of injury.
• Reduced functionality, since there is a limitation in muscle movement and strength.
• Formation of scar tissue which can affect the elasticity and function of the muscle.

To avoid fractures, it is recommended:

• Warm up well before each exercise.
• Correct technique when performing exercises.
• Avoid excessive strain, especially when the body is tired.
• Regular stretching to maintain muscle flexibility.

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for complete recovery after a muscle strain. In case of injury, it is recommended to immediately consult a specialist.