Strains

A strain occurs when a muscle or its tendon is over­stretched or torn during exercise or as a result of a pulling injury. There may be bleeding into the injured part of the muscle. Many strains can be prevented by warm-up exercises before sport.

Symptoms and signs

• pain, usually sudden, and worse on attempted movement
• tenderness and sometimes swelling around the affected area
• cramping of the affected and surrounding muscles
• loss of power in the affected muscle
• bruising within a few days of the injury

First aid treatment

1. Help the person into a comfortable position, raising and supporting the injured part.
2. Do not massage the injured part. Apply a compression bandage, checking frequently for paleness or blueness of skin beyond the bandage to make sure that swelling has not made it too tight.
3. Apply a cold compress to the affected area.
4. Encourage the sufferer to gently stretch the injured muscle; this may help to relieve painful cramp.
5. Seek medical advice if the pain persists or gets worse.