Symptoms
Sudden onset of pain while exercising or with movement may indicate a muscle strain. Other symptoms include:
- Reduced range of motion
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Muscle spasms
- Muscle weakness
- Stiffness
The degree of your muscle strain may determine the severity of your symptoms. With a mild muscle strain, your muscle may feel stiff, but you should be able to retain movement. With a severe muscle strain, you may have a severely limited range of motion along with the pain. You can manage a mild muscle strain at home with ice, rest, and anti-inflammatory medication. If your muscle strain is severe, you need to schedule an appointment with the Compass Pain and Spine doctor.
Diagnosis
The Compass Pain and Spine can diagnose a muscle strain during a comprehensive history and physical examination. In addition, we may also request diagnostic tests such as an MRI or ultrasound.