Muscle Strain
Muscle Strain: The muscle of the thoracic spine may become strained in a variety of ways. Because there are many muscles that are attached to individual thoracic vertebrae, the muscles can become strained when the spine is out of alignment. There are also muscles that are attached to the ribs that may become strains due to strenuous movements that pull the ribs apart.
Demographics: Muscle strain can occur in all individual but risks increase as we age. Occurrence can also increase for individuals who have decreased activity and become active.
Clinical Presentation: Muscles can become sore and tender to the touch especially in the acute phase of the injury. With the muscles strained, they can begin to pull the spine out of alignment because of the compensation of the patient. Patient may present with a bias toward flexion, extension, or a lateral shift.
Differential Diagnosis: Information gained during the initial evaluation can help the physical therapist determine if the condition is muscle strain. Palpation, AROM, and PROM can show any mobility and muscle tenderness issues.
Bottom Line: Patients that present with the above findings should be treated. An array of manipulations and manual therapy techniques can be used to assist in the pain and the healing of the muscles. Modalities may also be an option for these patients. Patients should also be prescribed a home exercise program that will help to strengthen the weakened muscles. (Dutton 2008)
Demographics: Muscle strain can occur in all individual but risks increase as we age. Occurrence can also increase for individuals who have decreased activity and become active.
Clinical Presentation: Muscles can become sore and tender to the touch especially in the acute phase of the injury. With the muscles strained, they can begin to pull the spine out of alignment because of the compensation of the patient. Patient may present with a bias toward flexion, extension, or a lateral shift.
Differential Diagnosis: Information gained during the initial evaluation can help the physical therapist determine if the condition is muscle strain. Palpation, AROM, and PROM can show any mobility and muscle tenderness issues.
Bottom Line: Patients that present with the above findings should be treated. An array of manipulations and manual therapy techniques can be used to assist in the pain and the healing of the muscles. Modalities may also be an option for these patients. Patients should also be prescribed a home exercise program that will help to strengthen the weakened muscles. (Dutton 2008)
References: Please refer to the "Muscle Strain" section of the reference list.