Strain Specialist

In just a split second, you strained a muscle, and now you’re dealing with long-term pain and mobility issues. If you’ve sustained a strain and need treatment, visit any one of our trained physical therapists, at Maiden Lane Medical. Helping men and women in New York, our therapists are pain management specialists who emphasize nonsurgical treatments and a multidisciplinary approach. To find relief, contact the office to schedule a consultation or book your first appointment online.

Medium sized Maiden Lane Medical Logo
“My doctor was very pleasant and easy to talk to. She was extremely knowledgeable and addressed all my issues and concerns. Very positive experience!”
Janice A.

What is a strain?

A strain refers to an injury where a muscle or tendon has been stretched or torn. Similar to a sprain, which is an injury to a ligament, a strain causes many uncomfortable symptoms that can get worse if left untreated. Strains are common in the lower back, the hamstrings, and the neck.

Sometimes strains go away on their own with rest, ice, heat, and anti-inflammatory drugs, but more severe strains often require medical treatment.

What causes a strain?

There are many ways you can strain a muscle or tendon. The most common cause of strains is injury, which can happen for a number of reasons: poor flexibility, lack of conditioning, not warming up before exercise, or overexertion.

In other cases, strains can come from accidents, slips, throwing something heavy, or awkwardly lifting an object. If you have a chronic strain, it’s often due to repetitive motions or poor posture.

What are the symptoms of a strain?

Symptoms of a strain vary depending on the location and severity of your injury. Common signs of a strain include:

  • Muscle spasms
  • Sudden pain
  • Soreness
  • Swelling
  • Limited range of motion

With mild strains, you may feel only slightly stiff or uncomfortable. With a severe strain, you can experience extreme pain. All sprains, however, generally cause pain right away and are sometimes correlated to a change in activity. In other cases, the pain may occur randomly. Your skin or the affected area might also feel tender to the touch.

How is a strain treated?

Our doctors treat strains with a number of pain management techniques. Your customized treatment plan may include anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxants, physical therapy, or trigger point injections.

The goal of treatment is to help you manage pain and regain mobility where you’ve felt the strain. We might also recommend a protocol of rest, icing, dietary changes, or herbal supplements to support your healing.

With the right care, you can easily recover and get back to your favorite activities. To book a consultation about your symptoms, contact the office today by calling or scheduling an appointment online.

Sprains and Strains

A sprain is a stretch or tear of a ligament while a strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon. Sprains are caused by trauma such as a fall or blow that stresses a joint out of position. A strain is caused by twisting or pulling a muscle or tendon. Learn more about muscle and ligament sprains and strains and how to lower your risks.

Don't know which doctor to choose? Let us help you.

Medium sized Maiden Lane Medical Logo
“My Doctor was knowledgeable, patient, and thorough. She answered all my questions and really put me at ease. Her laidback and friendly demeanor made it easy for me to talk to her. Needless to say I’ll be going back!”
STEPHANIE L.

Our doctors who provide this service

Page Baker, DPT

Board Certified Pelvic Physical Therapist

Kate Zhang, DPT

Board Certified Pelvic Physical Therapist
Profile Photo of Dr. Jennifer Zocca

Jennifer Zocca, MD

Dual Board Certified Pain Medicine Physician & Anesthesiologist, Medical Director

Book an Appointment

Stop living in pain. We have doctors who can help. Book NOW.