Causes
This problem may be caused by:
- Stretching the muscles too fast or too far
- Putting sudden stress on the muscles when they are not ready for the stress
- Overuse
- A direct blow
Risk Factors
Things that may raise the risk of this problem are:
- Repetitive movements that strain the forearm muscles
- Prior strain or injury to the muscles
- Weak or tired muscles
Symptoms
Problems may be:
- Pain while stretching the fingers or wrist
- Problems flexing the fingers or wrist
- Swelling
- Muscle spasms
Diagnosis
You will be asked about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. It will focus on the forearm. This is often enough to make the diagnosis.
Images may be taken to find out how much damage there is. This can be done with:
Treatment
How long it takes to heal depends on the injury. The goal of treatment is to promote healing. Options are:
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation
- Medicines to ease pain and swelling
Prevention
The risk of this problem may be lowered by:
- Strengthening the muscles of the forearm
- Using the right techniques when playing sports
Causes
This problem may be caused by:
- Stretching the muscles too fast or too far
- Putting sudden stress on the muscles when they are not ready for the stress
- Overuse
- A direct blow
Risk Factors
Things that may raise the risk of this problem are:
- Repetitive movements that strain the forearm muscles
- Prior strain or injury to the muscles
- Weak or tired muscles
Symptoms
Problems may be:
- Pain while stretching the fingers or wrist
- Problems flexing the fingers or wrist
- Swelling
- Muscle spasms
Diagnosis
You will be asked about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. It will focus on the forearm. This is often enough to make the diagnosis.
Images may be taken to find out how much damage there is. This can be done with:
Treatment
How long it takes to heal depends on the injury. The goal of treatment is to promote healing. Options are:
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation
- Medicines to ease pain and swelling
Prevention
The risk of this problem may be lowered by:
- Strengthening the muscles of the forearm
- Using the right techniques when playing sports
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
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