Conditions

Muscle tears and muscle injuries

A muscle tear is an injury to the muscle that usually happens during a sudden movement: a sprint, a change of pace or a jump. The most common affect the hamstrings, calf, quadriceps and adductors. Accurate diagnosis with ultrasound and well-directed rehabilitation are the key to returning to activity without re-injury. Dr Julio De la Morena, who spent fourteen years with the Real Madrid CF medical services, treats them at Hospital Memorial Publio Cordón (Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid), in athletes and in people who do not compete.

Symptoms

• Sharp, stabbing pain during effort.
• Difficulty continuing to walk or run.
• Bruising or swelling over the following days.
• Pain when contracting or stretching the muscle.

Diagnosis

Ultrasound, ideally performed 24 to 72 hours after the injury, locates it, measures its size and shows whether the tendon is involved. That information sets the recovery timeline. Complex injuries may need an MRI.

Treatment and return to activity

• Initial protection and pain control, without complete rest.
• Progressive rehabilitation of strength, flexibility and running.
• Objective criteria for returning to sport, not just days off.
• Autologous growth factors in selected cases.
• Preventing recurrence with specific exercise, especially for the hamstrings.

Frequently asked questions

Written and reviewed by Dr Julio De la Morena Garzón, specialist in Sport and Exercise Medicine (Madrid Medical Council no. 281903698). Last reviewed: October 2026. General information that does not replace a medical consultation.