Physiotherapy for Quadriceps Strain
Quadriceps strain is very common in sports like football, where regular kicking and running is practiced. A quadriceps strain occurs when a muscle is forcibly stretched beyond its limits and the muscle tissue gets torn. Based on the severity of the strain, it is classified as a first, second or third degree strain.
When a quadriceps strain occurs, it is important to react immediately. Physiotherapy is the best treatment for this type of muscle strain. The physiotherapy treatment for quadriceps strain differs depending on the degree of strain. It is, therefore, important to get your muscle strain diagnosed from a professional physiotherapist who will then treat your injury accordingly.
Symptoms of Quadriceps Strain
- Grade one thigh strain – Until the activity is over, the signs may not be present. There might be a slight feeling of pain and a sensation of thigh cramp when the muscles are stretched.
- Grade two thigh strain – Unlike grade one injury, there is immediate pain and it is more severe. Grade two thigh strain can only be identified when you experience pain when stretching and contracting quadriceps muscles. This type of strain is usually sore to touch.
- Grade three thigh strain – This is a very serious injury. In this type, the athlete is unable to walk without feeling pain. There is immediate stabbing and burning pain. The muscle is torn completely and there is a bruising over the injury.
How is Quadriceps Strain Diagnosed?
A professional physiotherapist will examine and look for the symptoms of a quadriceps strain. If the professional physiotherapist is not able to diagnose the injury, physical therapy in Edmonton demands an ultrasound or MRI to confirm the location and the severity of the injury.
Physiotherapy for Quadriceps Strain
Physical therapy in Edmonton will aim to:
- Reduce the pain and inflammation
- Bring the joint range of motion back to normal
- Protect the area of injury
- Strengthen your quadriceps and hamstrings
- Reduce your chance of getting injured again
Usually, the rehabilitation procedure takes up to six weeks, but, it might vary depending on the degree of strain. It is very important to complete the full process of physiotherapy treatment as your professional physiotherapist guides you. This will reduce the chance of re-injury or ongoing thigh problems.
Can you Return to the Sport with Quadriceps Strain?
Most of the patients are able to make a full recovery for quadriceps strain with physiotherapy. In this way, they manage to get back to their earlier sporting activities. The time that a patient needs to completely recover and return to their sport differs depending on the degree of strain. To minimize the risk of complications when you get back to your sport, it is necessary that you complete the full rehabilitation program as prescribed by your professional physiotherapist.
If you continue your physiotherapy process, you will not have to undergo a surgery. A surgery is only essential when a major muscle tear occurs. Thus, physiotherapy is the best treatment for quadriceps strain as it will help to reduce your pain and help you to get back on your feet as soon as possible.
