What a muscle strain is

Muscle strain

A muscle strain is a muscle that has been overstretched or partly torn. It often happens during a sudden movement, lifting, or overusing a tired muscle.

Signs are pain, tightness, swelling and weakness in the muscle, which is often sore to use or stretch.

This matters because a strain can limit movement and, if pushed too soon, take longer to settle.

Most strains heal well with time and sensible activity. Physiotherapy does not heal the muscle faster than nature, but it guides recovery so it is complete and less likely to return.

At home our physiotherapist advises on early rest and gentle movement, then guides graded exercise to rebuild strength. We help you return to normal activity at the right pace, and address habits that led to the strain.