About this disease
What it is about
Muscle injuries can be caused by external force, so-called traumas, or by internal causes such as metabolism or previous damage. This results in a mismatch between load and load-bearing capacity, which posttraumatically leads to a functional limitation of the musculature within a certain regeneration period of hours to weeks.
Types
More than 90 percent of muscle injuries in sports are bruises and strains. A distinction is made between acute and chronic muscle injuries. Muscle injuries are classified according to the well-known physician Dr. Müller-Wohlfart: Grade 1 are muscle hardenings, grade 2 muscle strains, grade 3 muscle fiber and muscle bundle tears and grade 4 muscle tears.
Symptoms and consequences
Symptoms include localized pain, swelling, functional impairment to loss of function, induration, bruising, and what is known as muscle soreness.
What we do for you
Examination and diagnosis
The affected muscle region is viewed and palpated. Imaging techniques such as ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are useful tools to accurately diagnose the injuries.
Treatment
The simple and practical immediate treatment of the injured skeletal muscle or any type of soft tissue injury is known as the "PECH principle" - rest, ice, compression and elevation. These measures are aimed at minimizing bleeding into the injury site. This is followed by immobilization for five to ten days with subsequent mobilization, initially with adhesive tape dressings to support the more passive connective tissue wraps. Surgery is required for large bruises, muscle tears of >50% and for complete muscle tears.