Muscle strains and muscle pulls are common injuries that can happen to anyone, from weekend warriors and athletes to those simply going about daily tasks. At Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center, we specialize in diagnosing and treating muscle strains with the goal of getting you back to your routine safely and efficiently. Whether your injury is mild or more serious, our expert orthopedic team offers personalized care to support your recovery.
Diagnosing Muscle Strains and Pulls
Muscle strains occur when a muscle or tendon is overstretched or torn, often due to sudden movement, overuse, or improper lifting technique. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, muscle weakness, or difficulty moving the affected area.
At Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center, our team begins with a thorough clinical evaluation. This includes a detailed discussion of how the injury occurred, your activity level, and symptoms. We may also use imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs to rule out fractures or more severe tissue damage. Once diagnosed, we tailor a treatment plan to your individual needs, activity level, and recovery goals.
Soft Muscle Strains and Pulls Care in Charlottesville
We understand that no two muscle injuries are exactly the same, and we offer compassionate, high-quality care for a wide range of muscle strains and pulls, helping patients of all ages recover mobility and reduce pain. Below are some of the most common types of muscle strains we treat at our Charlottesville, VA location:
Hamstring Strain
Often occurring during activities that involve sprinting or sudden starts and stops, hamstring strains can range from minor tightness to complete tears. Recovery typically involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, imaging to monitor progress.
Quadriceps Strain
This type of strain affects the large muscles at the front of the thigh. It’s commonly seen in athletes who jump or kick frequently. Prompt care helps prevent worsening of the injury and allows for safe return to activity.
Calf Muscle Strain (Gastrocnemius or Soleus)
Calf strains can make it difficult to walk or push off your foot. These injuries are common in runners and athletes and require a combination of rest, compression, and strengthening to fully heal.
Groin Pull
Groin pulls are common in sports that involve side-to-side movements, like soccer or hockey. Treatment typically includes ice, stretching, and gradually returning to normal activities under professional supervision.
Lower Back Muscle Strain
Lower back strains are frequently caused by lifting heavy objects incorrectly or prolonged poor posture. Our team uses a combination of manual therapy, guided exercise, and ergonomic education to aid in recovery.
Shoulder Strain
Shoulder muscle strains can result from repetitive overhead motion or sudden impact. Depending on the severity, treatment might involve anti-inflammatory therapies, physical therapy, and activity modification.
Neck Muscle Strain
Neck strains often result from poor posture, whiplash, or extended screen time. We provide targeted treatment to relieve pain and stiffness while strengthening supporting muscles to prevent recurrence.
Request an Appointment Today
If you’re dealing with a muscle strain or pull, don’t wait to seek care. Our team at Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center is here to help you heal safely and get back to the activities you love. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and start your recovery journey.
Our Providers
The providers at Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center are highly skilled and experienced in their respective specialties.
Patient Resources
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Complimentary Movement Screening
Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center offers complimentary movement screenings to assess your movement, identify imbalances, and help prevent injuries. Whether you’re active, recovering, or want to move better, our expert phsycial therapists provide personalized recommendations for your long-term mobility and wellness.
Contact UsWhat Our Patients Say
I was impressed with the quality of service and the caring people throughout the visit, from the receptionist to the doctor seen. They truly care and are honest and professional.
The entire staff was very pleasant and knowledgeable. Dr. Nielsen was very thorough in his findings and explained everything. At the end of the appointment, Dr. Nielsen wanted to make sure that I had no questions. Very happy that I chose Charlottesville Orthopedic Center.
I had a great experience concerning this appointment. I was given an appointment either the day I phoned in or following. This is most unusual and most beneficial to the patient. My concerns were acknowledged by the practitioner and exam was pain free with managed results. A practitioner explained and I was given all information needed. My visit was overall pain free with treatment. Thank-you Charlottesville Orthopedics!
