Muscle Strain

Muscle strains typically cause localized pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected muscle. However, if you heard a loud pop, see visible deformity, cannot bear weight at all, or have severe swelling and bruising, you may have a complete tear or fracture. Our medical providers can perform a thorough examination and order X-rays if needed to determine the exact nature of your injury and rule out more serious conditions.

For the first 48-72 hours after injury, use ice to reduce swelling and pain. Apply ice for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times per day, with a cloth barrier between ice and skin. After the initial acute phase, you may transition to heat therapy to promote blood flow and healing. However, if swelling persists, continue with ice. Our providers will give you specific instructions based on your injury severity.

This depends on the severity of your strain. Grade 1 strains may allow modified activity with proper precautions, while Grade 2 and 3 strains typically require complete rest from the aggravating activity. Our medical providers will give you specific return-to-activity guidelines based on your injury. Generally, you should avoid any movement that causes pain and gradually increase activity only as symptoms improve. Returning to full activity too soon can worsen the injury and delay healing.

No appointment is necessary. We welcome walk-ins daily from 8am to 8pm at both our Palm Beach Gardens and Stuart locations. Most patients are evaluated and treated promptly, receiving a complete diagnosis and treatment plan during their visit.

Not all muscle strains require X-rays, but our medical providers may recommend imaging if there's concern about a possible fracture, severe tear, or if the mechanism of injury suggests bone involvement. We have X-ray capabilities on-site, so if imaging is needed, it can be performed during your visit without requiring a separate appointment elsewhere.

Please bring your photo ID, insurance card if applicable, and a list of current medications. If you've been treating the injury at home, let us know what methods you've tried and whether they've helped. This information helps our medical providers create the most effective treatment plan for your specific situation.

Visit the emergency room if you experience severe deformity, complete inability to move the affected area, loss of sensation, signs of compartment syndrome (severe pain with swelling, numbness, and pale skin), or if the injury involves significant trauma like a car accident. For typical muscle strains from sports, exercise, or daily activities, urgent care provides appropriate evaluation and treatment.

Yes, our medical providers can prescribe appropriate pain medications, muscle relaxants, and anti-inflammatory medications when clinically indicated. We'll assess your pain level, injury severity, and medical history to determine the most appropriate medication regimen. Prescriptions are sent electronically to your preferred pharmacy for convenient pickup.