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Muscle strain

Most muscle strains (pulled muscles) are caused by overstretching muscles. Strains may be minor or severe, such as a torn muscle or tendon.

Symptoms of a muscle strain can vary depending on how severe the strain is and may include:

  • Pain and tenderness that is worse with movement.
  • Swelling and bruising.
  • Normal or limited muscle movement.
  • A bulge or deformity at the site of a complete tear.

Recovery time for a muscle strain can vary depending on a person's age and health and the type and severity of the strain. While a minor strain often heals well with home treatment, a severe strain may require medical treatment. If a severe strain is not treated, a person may have long-term pain, limited movement, and deformity.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Revised November 4, 2009

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: November 04, 2009
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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