A muscle strain is an injury to a muscle or a tendon — the fibrous tissue that connects muscles to bones. Minor injuries may only overstretch a muscle or tendon, while more severe injuries may involve partial or complete tears in these tissues.

Sprain and Strain (Muscle Tear)

Muscle and tendon strains and ligament sprains send millions of people to the doctor each year. About 2 million people alone sprain their ankle. But there are also wrist sprains, back strains, ACL tears, and any number of other sprains and strains.

Sprains and strains cause pain and loss of range of motion. They force employees to miss work and athletes to take time off from their sport.

Many sprains and strains heal on their own, with rest. But some need surgery or physical therapy to help rehab and prevent future injuries.