Soft Tissue Strain

Some of the most common types of soft tissue injuries involve strains to muscles and tendons. These types of injuries are often caused by sports-related accidents and exercising; however, simple everyday activities can lead to these injuries as well.  

There are two main categories of soft tissue injuries, which are acute injuries and overuse injuries.

• Acute injuries: These types of injuries are caused by sudden trauma, such as a fall, twist, or sudden blow to the body. Acute injuries happen quickly and they are often serious. Some examples of acute injuries include sprains, strains, and contusions.
  

• Overuse injuries: Overuse injuries gradually progress over time and occur due to repetitive stress put onto certain parts of the body. These types of injuries are common with athletes. Some examples of overuse injuries include tendonitis and bursitis.

What is a Soft Tissue Strain?

A soft tissue strain is an injury that occurs to a muscle and/or tendon. Tendons are fibrous connective tissue, which attach muscle to the bone. Strains mostly occur in the back of the leg, which is the hamstring. Strains can be complete or partial tears of the muscle or tendon. 

Contact sports are often the cause of soft tissue strains. For example, football, soccer, hockey, basketball, and boxing put athletes at risk of a hamstring strain. Additionally, track and field sports (running, jumping, and hurdling) may result in hamstring strains. Sports that involve throwing and other contact sports may result in elbow strains as well.

What Are Symptoms of a Soft Tissue Strain?

Common symptoms of a soft tissue strain involve:

• Pain
• Muscle spasms
• Muscle weakness
• Inflammation
• Swelling
• Cramping

How to Prevent Soft Tissue Strains

Injuries often occur when individuals suddenly increase the duration, frequency, and intensity in the activity they’re participating in. However, it is important to know that these types of injuries can be prevented with proper training and conditioning. Here are some other tips:

• Use proper shoes that support your heel and arch
• Develop a balanced fitness program
• Always warm up, even before stretching
• Drink water
• Rest when necessary
• Stretch
• Try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day

If you have suffered a soft tissue strain, it is important to consult with our team at BodyPro Chiropractic & Sports Medicine. Our team will be able to provide you with optimal care so you can make a full recovery, pain free. In addition, our goal is to also improve your overall function and mobility and prevent further re-injury. To learn more about how our Los Angeles sports injury specialist can get you back to where you need to be, contact us today!