What is a strain?

A strain refers specifically to an injury to muscles or tendons, which are the tissues connecting muscles to bones. When a muscle or tendon is overstretched or torn, this leads to a strain, which often occurs during physical activities that require sudden movements, lifting, or heavy exertion.

Understanding the nature of strains is crucial in sports medicine as it pertains to the treatment and rehabilitation of the affected muscle or tendon. Typical symptoms of a strain include pain, swelling, and limited range of motion, which can impact an athlete's performance and necessitate a strategic approach to recovery.

In contrast, injuries to ligaments are classified as sprains, while excessive stretching can lead to strains but is not a standalone definition. Minor skin injuries can involve abrasions or lacerations but do not fall within the classification of muscular or tendon injuries that cause strains.