Causes of Muscle Pulls

Muscle pulls, which are also referred to as muscle strains, are common injuries that can occur in anyone who engages in any physical activity. Fortunately, muscle pulls are a preventable injury, and those that do occur can usually be treated at home with protection of the affected area, rest, ice, compression and gentle exercise, although medical intervention may be necessary for severe injuries. Consider this information from the Mayo Clinic, the National Library of Medicine and the University of Maryland Medical Center about the causes of muscle pulls.

Improper Use

• People who start physical activities without first warming up may end up pulling a muscle. Muscle pulls may result from suddenly changing or stopping activities, and sometimes pain from this type of strain is not felt until several hours after it occurs. People who improperly use exercise equipment may get a pulled muscle due to carelessness.

Overuse

• People who repeat the same movements for a long period of time may get a pulled muscle due to overuse of the muscle and surrounding ligaments. Engaging in vigorous or strenuous physical activities without taking a rest period may also result in a pulled muscle. People who attempt exercises such as weight lifting may pull a muscle while attempting to do more work with the muscle than it is capable of doing.

Personal Habits

• People who were previously inactive or only irregularly exercised and then begin a new exercise regimen may pull a muscle due to the body being out of good physical condition. Suddenly stopping to avoid an unexpected obstacle, such as a pothole or other hazard, may result in a pulled muscle. People who exercise at the end of the day or who work for long hours at a physically intense job may pull a muscle due to physical fatigue.

Poor Technique

• People who engage in physical activity without training in proper techniques may pull a muscle. Bending with the back rather than at the knees when lifting or doing weight bearing exercises may result in a pulled muscle. People who put their bodies into an awkward position when throwing, jumping or climbing may pull a muscle.

Trauma

• People who experience physical trauma may develop a pulled muscle as a result of their injuries. Auto accidents can result in overstretching and pulling of a muscle, even with the use of protective measures such as seatbelts and airbags. People who slip and fall on ice or in the shower may pull a muscle while trying to stop themselves from falling or when trying to get up.