Quadricep Question (severity of injury?)

by Justin
(San Jose, California)

So I just strained my quad muscle in a baseball game. I had no bruising or swelling but I am unable to walk. I have no initial pain while resting but I do if I try to walk. What would you rate that as from 1-3 in the severity of the injury? And also should I still be icing the injury if there's no bruising or swelling?

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Quadricep Question (severity of injury?)

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Oct 15, 2008
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quad strain
by: Bart - SII

Grading the injury isn't going to be based on the amount of bruising or swelling, but the actual tissue damage sustained. Chances are, if you don't have swelling or bruising after the first 48 hours, it is likely a grade 1 or 2. Grade 3 strains of the quad often show either a visible or palpable defect in the muscle belly - you can feel with your fingers where there is a tear.

With that said, swelling, bruising, and deformity are not always indicative of the severity. If you are unable to walk and are having significant pain, you need to see your doctor for an evaluation.

Bart