Medically Reviewed by: Dr. Ryan Wigness, DC (Clinic Director & Soft Tissue Specialist) | Last Updated: August 2026
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical evaluation or treatment.
Muscle strains can arise just about anywhere in the body, ranging from mild aching to an inability to move the affected area. Often referred to as a pulled muscle, a strain typically occurs from an acute trauma (like an auto accident or sports injury) or repetitive overuse.
⚠️ When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
While many mild strains heal with conservative home care, seek immediate medical care if you experience:
- A popping or snapping sound or sensation at the time of injury
- Inability to bear weight or move the affected limb
- Severe, sudden swelling, deep bruising, or a visible gap/bulge in the muscle
- Numbness, tingling, coldness, or weakness below the injury site
- Fever or red streaks spreading from the injured area
What is a Muscle Strain?
A muscle strain occurs when muscle fibers or the tendons connecting muscle to bone are overstretched or torn. Severity depends on how much soft tissue damage has occurred.
Muscle Strain Severity Grades & Healing Timelines
| Grade | Damage Level | Typical Symptoms | Estimated Recovery Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grade 1 (Mild) | Mild stretching or micro-tears of muscle fibers. | Mild tenderness, minimal swelling, full movement preserved. | 1 to 2 weeks |
| Grade 2 (Moderate) | Partial tear of muscle or tendon fibers. | Noticeable swelling, bruising, weakness, pain when contracted. | 3 to 8 weeks |
| Grade 3 (Severe) | Complete rupture or tear of muscle tissue. | Severe pain, loss of function, visible muscle defect or gap. | 3 to 6+ months (may require surgery) |
How to Treat a Pulled Muscle: Acute vs. Active Care
Managing soft tissue injuries requires shifting treatment strategies as healing progresses.
| Phase | Recommended Action | Primary Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Acute Phase (First 0–48 Hours) |
|
Control localized swelling, decrease internal bleeding, and numb acute pain. |
| Sub-Acute Phase (After 48 Hours) |
|
Promote blood flow, deliver nutrients, relax tight muscle tissue, and prevent stiff scar tissue build-up. |
Chiropractic Care & Soft Tissue Solutions in Whitefish, MT
While home care aids early comfort, specialized manual treatment is critical for releasing scar tissue and restoring full range of motion. At Whitefish Chiropractic Center, Clinic Director Dr. Ryan Wigness specializes in soft tissue injuries, scar tissue release, and extremity rehab. Having taught internationally on soft tissue mobilization and taping, Dr. Wigness utilizes an integrative approach to muscle strains:
- Active Release Technique (ART) & Graston Technique: As a certified practitioner in ART and Graston Technique, Dr. Wigness uses targeted soft tissue mobilization to break up dense scar tissue, release muscle adhesions, and restore smooth tissue gliding.
- Chiropractic Care: Joint adjustments restore proper structural alignment, taking excess mechanical strain off damaged muscle fibers and preventing compensatory pain.
- Laser Therapy: Deep-penetrating light energy accelerates cellular repair, decreases deep tissue inflammation, and provides non-invasive pain relief.
- Shockwave Therapy: Acoustic pressure waves increase blood flow, break up chronic soft tissue adhesions, and stimulate natural tissue regeneration.
Frequently Asked Questions About Muscle Strains
Can a chiropractor treat a pulled muscle?
Yes. Dr. Ryan Wigness specializes in soft tissue mobilization, scar tissue release, and soft tissue injuries. At Whitefish Chiropractic Center, muscle strains are evaluated and treated using Active Release Technique (ART), Graston Technique, chiropractic adjustments, laser therapy, and shockwave therapy.
Should I use ice or heat for a muscle strain?
Use ice for the first 48 hours to restrict inflammation and control acute swelling. Switch to heat after swelling subsides to boost blood flow, oxygen, and nutrient delivery to healing tissues.
How long does a muscle strain take to heal?
Mild (Grade 1) strains typically resolve in 1 to 2 weeks with rest. Moderate (Grade 2) strains require 3 to 8 weeks, while severe (Grade 3) full tears can take several months or require surgical consultation.
When should I see a chiropractor for a muscle strain?
You should seek professional care if pain persists beyond 48–72 hours, limits your normal movement, or continues to recur during physical activity.
About the Author
Dr. Ryan Wigness, DC is a Licensed Chiropractic Physician, Clinic Director, and founder of Whitefish Chiropractic Center (est. 2003). A graduate of Northwestern Health Sciences University, Dr. Wigness specializes in soft tissue injuries, scar tissue release, and extremity care. He is certified in Active Release Technique (ART), Graston Technique, and Motion Palpation, and has taught nationally and internationally on soft tissue mobilization and taping techniques.
Get Back to Pain-Free Movement
Don’t let a muscle strain keep you sidelined. Contact Dr. Ryan Wigness and our team at any of our convenient Flathead Valley locations:
