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How Chiropractic Care Can Treat Strained or Pulled Muscles


July 24th, 2025

Pulled or strained muscles are common injuries that can occur during physical activities, whether it’s exercise, sports, or even everyday tasks. A muscle strain occurs when a muscle is stretched beyond its limits, causing tiny tears in the muscle fibres. This can lead to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. 

Strains are often categorized into three grades:

  • Grade I: Mild strain with minor damage to muscle fibres, resulting in mild pain and swelling.
  • Grade II: Moderate strain with more significant damage, causing more severe pain, swelling, and some loss of function.
  • Grade III: Severe strain where the muscle is completely torn, leading to intense pain and significant loss of function.

Strains can occur in any muscle but are most common in the back, neck, and legs. Symptoms may include sudden pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty using the affected muscle. Understanding the nature of these injuries is crucial for effective treatment, and this is where chiropractic care can play a vital role.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help Treat Strained or Pulled Muscles

Chiropractic care is a holistic approach that focuses on the musculoskeletal system, emphasizing the relationship between the spine and the nervous system. Chiropractors are trained to assess and treat muscle strains effectively, employing various techniques tailored to individual needs.

  • Assessment and Diagnosis: A chiropractor typically starts by conducting a thorough evaluation of the injury, which involves a physical examination and an in-depth review of the patient’s medical history. They will evaluate the affected muscle and surrounding areas to determine the severity of the strain and any associated issues.
  • Manual Adjustments: One of the primary tools in chiropractic care is spinal manipulation or adjustments. These adjustments can help realign the spine, improve mobility, and reduce pain. Proper spinal alignment can enhance the body’s ability to heal itself, allowing strained muscles to recover more effectively.
  • Soft Tissue Therapy: Chiropractors frequently incorporate soft tissue therapies like massage, targeted stretching, and myofascial release into their treatment plans. These therapies target the affected muscle and surrounding tissues, promoting blood flow, reducing tension, and alleviating pain. By addressing the soft tissue components of a strain, chiropractors can facilitate a quicker recovery.
  • Rehabilitation Exercises: After the initial treatment phase, chiropractors may prescribe specific rehabilitation exercises to strengthen the affected muscle and restore its function. These exercises are designed to gradually increase strength and flexibility, helping to prevent future injuries.
  • Education and Prevention: Chiropractors also provide valuable education on proper body mechanics, posture, and techniques to avoid future strains. They can guide patients on how to safely engage in physical activities, ensuring that muscles are prepared for exertion.

Chiropractic care offers a comprehensive approach to treating strained or pulled muscles, focusing on healing and prevention. By addressing the underlying issues and not just the symptoms, chiropractic treatment can lead to long-lasting relief and improved physical function.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

If you or someone you know is suffering from a strained or pulled muscle, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. At Legacies Health Centre, our licensed chiropractors are dedicated to providing personalized care to help you recover and thrive. Schedule your appointment today with our chiropractors in North VancouverBurnabySurrey Nordel and South Surrey and take the first step towards a pain-free, active lifestyle!

Jasdeep Dhillon | Physiotherapist


Born and raised in Kelowna, BC, Dr. Jas enjoyed everything the Okanagan has to offer. Her background in movement science and firsthand experience with physical activity have shaped her understanding of how crucial it is to feel comfortable and capable in your body. In practice, Dr. Jas takes a personalized, patient-focused approach. Her treatments may include chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue techniques, and tailored rehab exercises designed to meet each individual’s needs. Her goal is to not only relieve pain and restore function but to guide patients toward long-term wellness

Book online with Jasdeep Dhillon in Southpoint here