Muscle Strains and Stretching: Rethinking Conventional Wisdom

The age-old question: How do you treat a muscle strain effectively?

One common teaching in physical therapy school is to avoid stretching a strained muscle. While this advice is well-intentioned, in my experience, it often limits your ability to help the muscle heal and the patient recover fully.

Understanding Muscle Strains

A muscle strain occurs due to overuse or overstretching, leading to micro-tears in the muscle fibers. These injuries are frequently caused by underlying muscle tightness or hypertonicity. The tightness is often the root cause of the strain. Therefore, addressing not only the symptoms but also the underlying tightness is critical for recovery.

If you neglect to stretch and improve the muscle’s flexibility and mobility, recovery can take longer, and the patient may be more prone to future strains.

The Stretching Debate

You might be thinking, “But if I stretch a strained muscle, won’t I worsen the micro-tears?” Theoretically, yes—if the stretching is too intense. However, gentle stretching within the patient’s tolerance can alleviate tightness, improve mobility, and address the root cause without exacerbating the strain.

Practical Application

When treating muscle strains, consider the following:

1. Gentle Stretching: Gradually stretch the affected muscle, ensuring it’s within the patient’s comfort level. Avoid overloading or aggressive techniques that could worsen the strain.

2. Address the Cause: Combine stretching with other interventions, such as soft tissue work, to alleviate tightness and hypertonicity.

3. Patient Education: Explain the importance of gentle stretching and how it contributes to faster recovery and long-term prevention of re-injury.

Real-World Experience

Many patients come to me after seeing specialists or other physical therapists, frustrated by lingering pain. A common thread in their stories is the lack of hands-on techniques and stretching during their previous treatments. By safely incorporating gentle stretching into their care, I’ve seen quicker and more effective results.

The Takeaway

Don’t shy away from stretching strained muscles. When done safely and thoughtfully, stretching can:

• Address the root cause of the strain.

• Speed up recovery.

• Prevent future injuries.

Reconsider the conventional wisdom, and watch your patients experience faster, more lasting relief.