Pulled Muscles

I Think I Pulled a Muscle... Now What?

A pulled muscle, or a muscle strain, is a painful experience.  Muscle strains occur when a muscle is overloaded and begins to break down.  This process can occur after one forceful movement (such as during sprinting) or after repetitive movements (such as climbing a long flight of stairs).  Common sites of muscle strains occur in the hamstrings, quads, shoulders, and calves.

A strained muscle must go through a healing process that allows the muscle cells to glue themselves back together.  Depending on the severity of your muscle strain, this process can take anywhere from 2 to 6+ weeks.  

Initially, a strained muscle is rested, iced, compressed, and elevated (usually for 48 hours).  However, after the initial rest phase, it is important to gradually begin moving the muscular unit to promote proper healing.  Physical therapy must include manual therapies, stretches, and exercises to promote proper healing.  Muscle strains that are not properly treated can become sites for re-injury in the future.  

If you are dealing with any muscle strain, call MOMENTUM Physical Therapy today to find out how our Physical Therapists can help you maximize your muscle strain recovery.  

Stephen Uhrbach is the clinic owner and lead physiotherapist at MOMENTUM Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab Ltd. located in Okotoks, AB.

Ankle Sprains & Strains

What Can I Do To Heal My Sprained Ankle?

Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments that hold the ankle together get stretched or torn when the ankle is forcefully twisted inwards or outwards.  Ankle sprains will present with pain, difficulty (or an inability) to weight bear, varying degrees of ankle swelling and bruising, and ankle stiffness.  Some ankle sprains require an x-ray to determine if the ankle sprain is also accompanied by a fracture. 

Rehab from an ankle sprain varies depending on the location of the sprain and the severity of the sprain.  Minor ankle sprains will typically recover in 2-4 weeks, while more severe sprains may require 8+ weeks.  Treatment should include a detailed history, a comprehensive ankle exam, and a treatment plan.  Early rehabilitation will focus on controlling ankle swelling and gradually increasing ankle range of motion.  As the ankle heals, treatment will focus on improving ankle strength and balance. 

If you are dealing with an ankle sprain or any ankle pain, call Momentum today to find out how we can help you get a foot up on your ankle pain. 

Stephen Uhrbach is the clinic owner and lead physiotherapist at MOMENTUM Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab Ltd. located in Okotoks, AB.