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Types of Muscle Injury

Muscles are tissues that contract and stretch in order to allow the bones of the body to move. A variety of muscle injuries may occur due to overexertion or accidents.

  1. Strain

    • Sometimes referred to as a pulled muscle, a muscle strain occurs when a muscle or the connective tissue that attaches it to a bone called a tendon is overly stretched or torn.

    Sprain

    • A sprain is similar to a strain, but involves ligaments rather than full muscles or tendons. The ligaments are muscular bands that hold two bones together, which can become sprained or overly stretched from stress being applied to a joint.

    Cramps

    • A muscle cramp occurs when a muscle suddenly and forcefully contracts. Dehydration and overuse are the most common causes of muscle cramping.

    Repetitive Strain Injury

    • Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) is similar to a muscle strain, except it involves repeated minor stretching of a tendon or joint. Over time, this stretching causes inflammation, which results in pain.

    Haematomas

    • A muscular haematoma or bruised muscle occurs when direct force causes a muscle to bleed. This can be caused by a fall or other accident and may accompany another injury like a strain or sprain.

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