Muscle Strains
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Does physio help a pulled muscle or muscle strain?
Muscle strains — often called pulled muscles — happen when muscle fibres are overstretched or torn. They’re a common injury in both active individuals and those doing everyday tasks, often caused by sudden movements, overuse, heavy lifting, or poor flexibility. Whether it’s a twinge in your hamstring after a run or a sharp pain in your back after lifting something awkwardly, muscle injuries can range from mild to severe.
At Ducker Physio, we treat all types of muscle strains with a hands-on, evidence-based approach. Our physiotherapists in Magill and Salisbury can help reduce pain, restore function, and guide you through a safe, tailored recovery plan to get you moving again — and help prevent re-injury.
Depending on severity, strains can take anywhere between a few days and weeks to fully repair. Our physiotherapists can have you on the road to recovery from your very first visit.
Signs & Symptoms of a Muscle Strain
Muscle strains can range from a mild twinge to a complete tear, depending on the severity. Recognising the signs early helps prevent further injury and speeds up recovery. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms on the right, our physios in Adelaide can assess the injury and guide your recovery with a tailored treatment plan.
Sudden, sharp pain during movement
Often felt at the moment of injury, especially during high-intensity or awkward movements.
Swelling or bruising
Inflammation and discolouration may appear within hours, especially in moderate to severe strains.
Tenderness or muscle tightness
The area may feel sore to touch or tight when resting or moving.
Reduced range of motion
Stretching or moving the joint may feel restricted or uncomfortable.
Muscle weakness or cramping
You might notice difficulty using the muscle as normal, or experience involuntary spasms.
Pain when stretching or contracting the muscle
Activities that engage the affected muscle can trigger sharp or aching pain.
A “pop” at the time of injury
In more severe cases, you may also feel a “pop” at the time of injury, or notice a visible lump, dip, or deformity in the muscle.
Grades of Muscle Strains
Muscle strains are classified into three grades based on the extent of muscle fibre damage:
Grade 1: Mild Strain
A small number of muscle fibres overstretched or torn
Localised pain or tightness
Minimal swelling or bruising
Often no loss of strength
Usually resolves in 1–2 weeks with gentle rehab
Grade 2: Moderate Strain
Partial tear of the muscle
Noticeable pain, swelling, and bruising
Reduced strength and movement
May feel a ‘twinge’ or ‘snap’ at the time of injury
Recovery usually takes several weeks with physiotherapy
Grade 3: Severe Strain or Complete Tear
Full rupture of the muscle or tendon
Sudden sharp pain, significant swelling, and bruising
Muscle function severely limited or lost
May feel a gap or lump where the muscle has torn
Often requires a longer rehab period, and in some cases, surgical input
Salisbury Clinic: Private Gym for Patients Only
Our Salisbury clinic features a dedicated patients-only gym, designed to create a calm, focused space for your recovery. No crowded gyms, no distractions — just you, your physiotherapist, and a tailored program built around your goals. With professional supervision at all times, you’ll feel supported and safe as you work through your rehabilitation without the pressure of public gym environments. It’s all about your recovery — and nothing else.
How Physiotherapy Helps Muscle Strains Heal
Physiotherapy plays a vital role in both the recovery and prevention of muscle strains. Whether it’s a minor pull or a more serious tear, getting the right treatment early can speed up healing, reduce pain, and lower the risk of re-injury. From the acute phase to full recovery, our physios work with you every step of the way to restore muscle function, improve mobility and reduce future injury risk.
Diagnosis & Grading
We assess the severity of your muscle strain and identify any contributing factors such as poor biomechanics, muscle imbalances, or training errors.
Hands-On Treatment
Techniques like soft tissue massage, joint mobilisation, and trigger point release help reduce pain, ease tightness, and promote circulation for healing.
Dry Needling (if appropriate)
Used to release deep muscle tension and promote muscle repair when needed.
Exercise Programs
We guide you through progressive stretches and strengthening exercises that support healing and prevent re-injury.
Education & Load Management
Learn how to manage your activity levels, avoid further strain, and improve flexibility, posture and strength.
Safe Return-to-Activity Planning
Whether you're returning to sport, work or general activity, we’ll help you do so safely and with confidence.
