quadriceps muscle pain & Strain: causes, symptoms, and treatment

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The quadriceps are a powerful group of muscles located on the front portion of the thigh. Because they are involved in many movements and connected to two major joints, a quad strain (commonly known as a pulled muscle) can greatly impact your daily life. Learn more about the anatomy and symptoms associated with this common injury with Airrosti’s Ally Jackson, DC.

WHAT CAUSES QUAD PAIN?

The quadriceps muscles span the front of the thighs and are often injured because they cross two joints: the hip and the knee. Quad pain can frequently occur in those who participate in sports that involve frequent running or kicking, such as soccer, football, and basketball. Because the quad muscles are involved in supporting much of the body’s movement while upright or in motion, quadriceps strains can often occur.

Person running

WHAT IS A QUAD STRAIN?

The quadriceps are particularly active during sprinting, jumping, or kicking. Too much tension can cause the muscle fibers to tear. This can be the result of either excessive force or repetitive motion. This tearing can happen gradually over time due to repetitive motion or quickly when excessive force is placed on the muscle group, such as a rapid acceleration or deceleration, or a sudden change in direction. Additionally, a sudden impact to the area such as a fall can also contribute to a quad strain.

QUAD STRAIN SYMPTOMS

Because the quadriceps muscles span the front of the thigh and are connected to various muscles and tendons at the hips and knees as well, symptoms can vary.

Common symptoms of a quad strain may include:

  • Pain and swelling in the thigh
  • Visible inflammation or bruising
  • Difficulty bending and straightening the knee
  • Leg weakness and reduced range of motion
  • Sharp pain when running, jumping, or kicking
  • Discomfort or tightness at the hip flexors

HOW LONG DOES A QUAD STRAIN TAKE TO HEAL?

The estimated recovery time for a quad strain is dependent on the severity of the strain. The clinical grading system for most strains, including quad strains, includes three categories:

Grade 1: Mild

Grade 1 quadriceps strains are characterized by the tearing of a limited number of muscle fibers and are indicated by mild pain and tenderness. Despite these discomforts, individuals may experience zero to minimal loss of strength. However, activities like walking or running might be uncomfortable. This grade is likely to recover in 1 to 2 weeks.

Grade 2: Moderate

Grade 2 quadriceps strains manifest with a moderate level of pain resulting from a significant number of muscle fibers being torn. This grade is also marked by a moderate loss of strength in the affected area and potential for swelling and bruising to occur. Individuals might have trouble bending their knees or straightening their legs, along with challenges in engaging in physical activities due to the strain’s constraints on mobility. A grade 2 strain can take several weeks to recover and heal.

Grade 3: Severe

A Grade 3 strain is the most severe level of injury, characterized by a complete loss of strength. This grade elicits intense pain, accompanied by pronounced swelling and extensive bruising. The strain results in the complete tearing of muscle fibers, causing the muscle to be separated into two pieces. This separation might be visibly evident as a physical dent or gap in the muscle structure. Grade 3 strains can take several months to recover.

Person receiving quad pain treatment

HOW TO TREAT AND PREVENT A QUAD STRAIN

For mild to moderate quad strains, the RICE method will likely be recommended by a healthcare provider:

  • Rest – Limit physical activity and pressure or weight on the affected area for 1 to 2 days. Resting can help reduce swelling and inflammation.
  • Ice – Icing your strain can also help reduce pain and swelling. You should ice the area for 10-15 minutes on and off every few hours throughout the day.
  • Compression – Use either an elastic bandage or wrap to decrease swelling. Take caution not to wrap too tightly as you can increase swelling to the area, as well as cause numbness or tingling.
  • Elevation – Keep the injured at or above the level of your heart to help reduce swelling. You can use pillows or a rolled towel or blanket to help lift the area.

You also may be recommended to take anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS) to help reduce pain. For more severe quadriceps strains and tears, surgery may be required alongside physical therapy to help rebuild strength and gain mobility in the affected area.

It is always best to stay one step ahead and take preventative action against injuries. As powerful as they are, the quads are still vulnerable to strain if they are neglected. Some steps you can take to avoid a quad injury include warming up properly before any activity and taking time to cool down and gently stretch your quads after exercise.

Strengthening your quads, hamstrings, and hip flexors can also help reduce your risk of quadriceps injuries, as well as injuries or strain to other areas of the lower body. Stronger muscles are more resistant to stress and can provide more support to your joints during activity.

Person stretching their quadriceps

AIRROSTI: QUAD STRAIN DIAGNOSIS, TREATMENT, AND PAIN RELIEF

If conservative and at-home quad strain treatment provides little to no relief, schedule a visit with Airrosti and start your recovery today.

Airrosti can help rapidly relieve your quadriceps pain fast, often in an average of 3 visits (based on patient-reported outcomes). At Airrosti, you will be treated by a Provider who will diagnose your condition or injury, and work to treat the pain directly at the source. Once diagnosed, an individualized treatment plan will be created for you. You’ll also receive education on your injury and resources to continue your recovery at home.

For more information, call us at (800) 404-6050.


Read our Medical Disclaimer here.

Reviewed by Casey Crisp, Doctor of Chiropractic

Disclaimer: Always consult with your doctor before starting any exercise program. If you experience any numbness, tingling or reproduction of your symptoms, please contact your doctor.

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