Treating Fractures in the Field
Lesson 1: Fractures
and Related Injuries
Section III: Related Injuries
1-14
1-14. STRAINS
A strain is a stretching or tearing of the muscle tissues around a joint. It is usually caused by excessive effort such as overstretching or overexertion. It is commonly called a "muscle pull."
a. Signs and Symptoms. A strain does not result in a deformed appearance. Swelling may or may not be present. Muscle spasms may be present. A strain can cause pain when the joint is moved.
b. Treatment. Have the casualty avoid putting weight on the injured joint. If you are unsure whether the injury is a strain or sprain, treat it as a sprain.
