30 Seconds SummaryHow to Prevent Muscle Strains
- Muscle strains occur when muscle is subjected to more strain energy than its tissue strength can handle, with two-joint muscles particularly vulnerable.
- Previous muscle strains significantly increase the likelihood of future strains in the same muscle.
- Proper warm-ups, ensuring adequate mobility, and avoiding excessive fatigue are key to reducing the risk of muscle strains.
- Muscle strains can range from minor fibrous tears to complete ruptures, often referred to as 'pulled' muscles.
- Incidences of acute muscle strains form about one-fifth of all athletic injuries, with similar injury rates comparable to triathlon training and less than in contact sports.
- Muscle anatomy shows it is a complex structure where resistance to strain is crucial for function, illustrated by its stress-strain curve.
- The response to muscle loading involves both elastic and plastic phases, with potential for mechanical failure if stress exceeds certain thresholds.
- Factors predisposing to muscle strains include a history of previous injuries and fatigue which reduces the muscle’s and tendon's elasticity.
- To prevent muscle strains, key strategies include an adequate warm-up, observing lifting techniques, managing loading and fatigue, and maintaining muscle balance.
- Despite advances in sports science, the rate of muscle strain injuries remains constant, underlining the need for ongoing research and improved injury prevention methods.
Stronger By Science
Travis Pollen
