Muscle Strain (Fibrillar Tear)

What is it?

A muscle strain or fibrillar tear occurs when a group of muscle fibers suffers a partial tear due to tension or load that exceeds the tissue's capacity to withstand it.

Although it is often associated with a sudden movement, the injury is typically the result of a combination of factors such as fatigue, lack of recovery, inadequate training progression, or accumulated overload.

Most Common Symptoms

• Acute pain during physical activity.

• A sharp stabbing or tearing sensation.

• Difficulty continuing the movement.

• Localized swelling.

• Loss of strength.

• Muscle stiffness.

• Discomfort when contracting or stretching the muscle.

Why does it occur?

A muscle strain can be related to various factors:

• Rapid changes of direction.

• Accelerations or explosive movements.

• High-intensity training.

• Accumulated muscle overload.

• Lack of recovery.

• Muscle fatigue.

• Biomechanical alterations.

• Exertion for which the muscle was not prepared.

The Importance of Progressive Loading

Following an injury, the muscle initiates a natural repair process. However, recovery is not just about the tissue healing; it is about restoring its strength, elasticity, coordination, and load-bearing capacity.

Therefore, therapeutic exercise plays a fundamental role, as it stimulates the progressive adaptation of the muscle and reduces the risk of re-injury.

Therapeutic Approach

Treatment is tailored to the recovery phase and may combine:

• Manual therapy.

• Myofascial release.

• Radiofrequency therapy, when indicated.

• Deep dry needling.

• Percutaneous Therapeutic Electrolysis (EPTE), when clinically indicated.

• Progressive therapeutic exercise.

• Movement re-education.

Treatment Objectives

• Reduce pain.

• Promote tissue repair.

• Restore mobility.

• Improve muscle strength and elasticity.

• Restore load-bearing capacity.

• Facilitate a safe return to physical activity.

• Reduce the risk of recurrence.