: How can I tell if it is a cramp or tear? Is there anyway I can tell a difference between a muscle cramp and a muscle tear? I was running today on the treadmill, and decided to increase the speed a little bit, but after some

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It look like a muscle cramp to me, but we have to wait one more day to tell if it was a cramp. If the pain goes away, then it is a cramp, if not, it might be a tear. Here is more info:

What is a Cramp?

A cramp in a muscle is caused by an involuntary spasm or contraction. It is usually sudden, can cause significant pain and can limit the use of the muscle for a short period of time.

Cramp Causes

A cramp will present as a knot or hard spot in the muscle. Cramps are usually caused by problems such as overworking a muscle, poor hydration, electrolyte imbalances, insufficient blood flow to the muscle or nerve compression.

What is a Muscle Tear?

A pulled muscle is actually a tear in the muscle tissue. This occurs when the muscle is strained to the point where the muscle is damaged. The more significant the strain, the more the muscle can be torn.

Pulled Muscle Causes

Pulled muscles are usually the result of not preparing the muscle for work through proper stretching, placing too much tension on the muscle or over-using the muscle. Soreness in the affected muscle is usually the first symptom. Using the muscle will be painful and difficult. In severe pulls, bruising may be present. The affected muscle will become very tender to the touch and some swelling may occur.

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