Guide To The Symptoms Of A Muscle Strain

Limited Range of Motion

Individuals with a strained muscle may have limits to the muscle's range of motion. In severe cases, they may not be able to use the muscle at all. This is more likely if the tear goes all the way through the muscle than if it is a minor stretching. If individuals are experiencing an impediment in their ability to move that is affecting their daily activities, they may want to see a doctor. This is especially true for those who have a limited range of motion after an impact injury or forcible stretching injury. Overuse injuries may limit the range of motion due to pain without having damaged the actual structures supporting the muscles. One common example would be sleeping wrong and waking up with a muscle strain in the neck. It may be hard for individuals to turn their head, though the pain should subside in a day or so.

Muscle Spasms

Many individuals will deal with muscle spasms as a warning sign of a muscle strain. Of course, muscle spasms are characterized by the sudden and involuntary movement of one of the patient’s muscles. Spasms may occur in more than one muscle at a time. Patients also refer to muscle spasms as muscle twitches, cramps, and even a charley horse. Muscle spasms are quite common and in many cases, is not a significant cause for concern. This includes when a muscle strain is the cause, though of course, treatment is still needed. Other reasons for muscle spasms include dehydration, stress, and exercise. In the case of exercise, the muscle is likely strained as well.