For further information: Muscle Strain , to the point of breaking it. Muscle strain can therefore be the result of sudden jerks, violent muscle contractions, strong muscle tightening, extreme muscle fatigue, weight lifting, etc.
The muscles most involved in tearing are those of the limbs, although all the muscles of the human body can be affected.
sudden and acute in the involved site, the intensity of which is proportional to the number of broken fibers; according to the amount of compromised muscle fibers, first, second and third degree muscle tears are distinguished (serious injury, in which the patient is unable to move the limb or the site involved).
In addition to pain, muscle tearing results in edema, swelling, cramps and spasms.
For further information: Muscle Strain SymptomsPLEASE NOTE
The information on muscle strain medications is not intended to replace the direct relationship between health care professional and patient. Always consult your doctor and / or specialist before taking any medications for muscle sprains of any kind.
) is very useful in these cases, since the tissue, in contact with the cold, tends to constrict, thus reducing the flow of blood.
When necessary, gentle compression can be applied by wrapping the affected limb with an elastic bandage to avoid swelling. If possible, keep the muscle elevated to help decrease swelling and pain.
It is recommended to stop all physical activity and not to subject the muscle to further strain, which would aggravate the condition, at least in the weeks immediately following the injury.
In addition, to mask the pain, it may be useful to take painkilling and anti-inflammatory drugs by mouth or in the form of ointments, gels or creams to be applied topically.
After the acute phase, lasting a few days, the subacute phase is passed, in which the muscle must be moved and used, since the pain and swelling are weaker.
The next phase, remodeling, can last up to 6 weeks following the injury, clearly based on the intensity of the tear: it is recommended to stretch the muscle several times a day, without overdoing the exercise.
In the following phases, the patient is able to move the muscle without feeling pain: it is recommended to tone the muscle and to practice physical exercise, avoiding excesses.
In any case, if you have any questions, it is important to contact your doctor.
PLEASE NOTE
The following are the drugs most used in the therapy against muscle tears; however, it is up to the doctor to choose the most suitable active ingredient and dosage for the patient, based on the severity of the tear, the individual's state of health and his or her response to treatment.
Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
As mentioned, to treat the pain caused by muscle tears, it is possible to resort to the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Among the active ingredients that the doctor may decide to prescribe, we find:
- Ketoprofen: is available in the form of creams or ointments to be applied directly on the area affected by the muscle tear (topical drug) or as tablets to be taken by mouth (systemic action). In the form of cream or gel, it is recommended to apply a thin layer of product directly on the injured area, once or twice a day, after careful cleaning and drying of the area.
- Diclofenac: It is available in the form of a gel, gastro-resistant tablets, suppositories or solution for injection. For topical application, it is recommended to spread a layer of cream in the area affected by the muscle injury twice a day.
- Naproxen (or naproxen, if you prefer): available in drugs for oral use and for topical use.
- Ibuprofen: the drug reduces the painful sensation in the muscles and promotes the ability to move. It is generally administered orally. In some cases, where the muscle tearing creates intense pain, it is possible - with medical consent - to resort to use. of parenterally administered ibuprofen-based medicinal products.
PLEASE NOTE
The above information about doses and how to use some of the listed NSAIDs are for illustrative purposes only. For the correct way to use medicines containing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and to use the right amount, follow the instructions provided by your doctor and read with attention to the package leaflet of the medicine prescribed by it to be used.
Non-Pharmacological Treatments
Medium and severe muscle strains may require, in addition to treatment with painkillers, also the association of other non-pharmacological therapies (for example, physiotherapy, massage therapy, etc.), useful for restoring muscle function in a short time.
