A strain can happen in any muscle or tendon and can cause pain. It may also limit movement in the affected muscle group. A muscle strain usually occurs when undue pressure is put on muscles in our daily activities.

Minor injuries can only over-stretch the muscle or its tendon whereas severe injuries can lead to a partial or complete tear of the tendon.

The common signs and symptoms depend on the severity of a muscle strain which is as follows:

• Sudden pain or tenderness
• Swelling, bruising, or redness
• Soreness
• Pain even at rest
• Pain when the specific muscle is in use
• A ‘knotted-up’ feeling