Which type of injury results from a muscle being pulled excessively?

A strain is an injury that occurs when a muscle or tendon is stretched beyond its normal limits, leading to tears or damage in the muscle fibers. This type of injury typically results from excessive pulling or stretching during physical activities, such as lifting heavy objects, playing sports, or sudden, awkward movements.

Unlike a sprain, which involves the ligaments around a joint being stretched or torn, a strain specifically refers to muscle-related injuries. Fractures involve breaks in bones, while contusions, commonly referred to as bruises, result from direct impacts to the muscle but do not involve excessive pulling. Understanding the distinction between these types of injuries is crucial in providing accurate care and treatment in a healthcare setting.