Muscle Strains & Tendonitis

What is a muscle strain?

A muscle strain is any injury that occurs to a muscle or tendon (the structures that connect muscles to bones). Sometimes called “pulled muscles”, muscle strains vary in severity and commonly occur in the back, neck, shoulders and legs. A muscle spasm occurs when a muscle is abnormally used, and causes an involuntary contraction, often described as feeling “locked” or “stuck”. Muscle spasms are often referred to as a “charlie horse” and can be quite pinful!

What is tendonitis?

An injury to a tendon that causes inflammation is often referred to as “tendonitis”. Tendon injuries can be caused by traumatic incidents (sports injuries, etc) or chronic overuse (repetitive movements). Symptoms of a muscle strain and tendonitis are similar, so a detailed assessment is recommended to ensure the right treatment is being provided!

Muscle Strain and 

Tendonitis Symptoms

Varicose Veins Treatment

Pain or tenderness

Cramp Pow Exercise

Redness or bruising

Person with arm in sling receiving physiotherapy treatment

Limited motion

Implant Power Treatment

Swelling

Tingling Red Light Therapy

Muscle weakness

tendonitis woman holding wrist at desk

What causes muscle strains and tendonitis?

Muscle strains and tendonitis injuries can be caused by an acute event such as: a slip and fall, sports injury, twisting the ‘wrong way’, lifting something too heavy, or picking something up from the floor. Spasms can occur in any of these situations as well. Strains and tendonitis can also be caused by excessive amounts of repetitive movements such as: gardening, housework, repetitive job tasks or repeated sports movements.

How can physiotherapy help?

Our physiotherapy treatments in Burlington can assist with managing pain, swelling and bruising, and can assist with regaining any loss of range of motion and strength. Physiotherapy will help get you back to your regular activities as quickly and efficiently as possible, while giving you information on how to prevent the injury from occurring again! Our physiotherapists are happy to work with your family physician or other health care professionals to deliver an integrated approach to your rehabilitation.

Pillars of Wellness Exterior View
TMJ Treatment Services.
"Neck pain treatment"
Orthopedic rehabilitation services.

Prevention

Maintaining an active lifestyle, including regular stretching and strengthening, will help to prevent strains and tendon injuries. Managing your environment as best as possible, (keeping driveway clear, walking on dry surfaces) and having an ergonomic assessment of your workplace completed are two other important preventative factors to consider.

Why choose Pillars of Wellness?

At Pillars of Wellness, in Burlington, Ontario, we are proud to provide a truly integrated care approach that employs a variety of treatments to achieve a faster recovery. Our clinic offers various services such as physiotherapy, chiropractic care, naturopathy, counselling, occupational therapy, yoga therapy, acupuncture, and holistic nutrition.

With multiple services and specialties in one place, you’ll get the best care possible — without having to look elsewhere. Pillars of Wellness is your one-stop-health solution, located right here in Burlington.

Last but not least, physiotherapy is typically covered under most extended health insurance plans. If you do not have coverage, or have exceeded your coverage limits, you can consult with our Chiropractors. All of our Chiropractor’s and Physiotherapist’s have skills and techniques to treat and manage muscle strains and associated symptoms.

Before Your Visit

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a muscle strain or tendonitis?

A muscle strain is an injury to muscle fibers from overstretching or overuse, while tendonitis is inflammation of a tendon — the tissue that connects muscle to bone.

What are common symptoms of muscle strain and tendonitis?

Symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness, tenderness, and reduced movement in the affected area.

How can physiotherapy help with these injuries?

Physiotherapy uses manual therapy, targeted exercises, and movement retraining to reduce pain, improve strength, and restore normal function.

How long does recovery usually take?

Recovery time varies based on severity, but many patients see improvement within a few weeks with consistent therapy and home exercises.

When should I seek treatment?

Seek treatment if pain persists, limits movement, or affects daily activities – especially if symptoms last more than a few days.

905-637-4000