First Aid

Pulled Muscle

If you practice Taekwondo, at some point you will pull (strain) a muscle. Strains are tears in muscle tissue. They are classified as

• First Degree. Little muscle tearing, mild tenderness and pain, and full range of motion.
• Second Degree. Muscle or tendon is torn, very painful, and limited range of motion; there may be swelling or a depression at the injury site.
• Third Degree. Rupture of a part of the muscle, pain is initially very severe but may subside some, and severely limited range of motion.

If you pull a muscle in class, first decide if you need a doctor. Look for swelling, changes in skin color, or other deformities. If pain or welling is severe, if you are unable to move the injured area, or if the injury does not appear to be healing, immobilize the area and seek medical attention.