Muscle pain due to injury

Voluntary muscle is the largest human organ system. The musculotendinous contractual unit sustains posture against gravity and movement against inertia. However, when exposed to single or recurrent episodes of biomechanical overloading, muscle injury may occur. Although chronic muscular injuries and myofascial pain syndromes are commonly diagnosed, they remain poorly understood. Techniques for evaluation of the muscular components of a pain syndrome involve palpation, strength testing, range of motion, and assessment of muscle endplay. Management of acute injuries may necessitate imaging and surgery consultation for lacerations or hemorrhage. Treatment of acute syndromes consists of cryotherapy and reduced activity, whereas chronic syndromes may require multiple therapeutic approaches, applied together or sequentially.