Lihasrepeämä

Lihasrepeämä, also known as a muscle tear or muscle strain, refers to damage to a muscle or its attaching tendons. This injury can range from a mild stretch or microtears within the muscle fibers to a complete rupture where the muscle or tendon separates. Lihasrepeämä typically occurs due to sudden forceful contraction, overstretching, or overuse of a muscle. Trauma, such as a direct blow to the muscle, can also cause a tear.

Symptoms of a lihasrepeämä can vary depending on the severity. Common signs include sudden pain in the affected muscle, tenderness to touch, swelling, bruising, and a reduced ability to move the injured limb. In severe cases, a visible gap or indentation may be felt or seen in the muscle. The location of the pain often corresponds to the injured muscle.

Diagnosis of a lihasrepeämä is usually made through a physical examination and by reviewing the patient's medical history and the mechanism of injury. Imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI may be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the damage, particularly for more severe tears.

Treatment for lihasrepeämä depends on the degree of the tear. Mild strains are often managed with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE protocol). Pain relief medication may be recommended. More severe tears might require immobilization, physical therapy to regain strength and flexibility, and in rare cases, surgery to repair the damaged muscle or tendon. Rehabilitation is crucial to ensure full recovery and prevent re-injury.