What is a pulled muscle?

A pulled muscle indicates damage to tendons attached to a muscle or to the muscle itself, according to WebMD. A pulled muscle can also experience tearing of the muscle fibers and tendons, which can cause damage to blood vessels resulting in bruising, pain or bleeding.

A muscle pull can occur when pressure is put on the muscles during activity, while playing sports or through sudden heavy lifting, explains WebMD. Common symptoms include pain or weakness when the muscle is used and swelling, redness or bruising. Muscle pulls heal best with a routine of applying ice and wraps, elevating the area of the body that is in pain and resting.