A muscle strain can occur as a result of what?

A muscle strain primarily results from overstretching or forced contractions when the muscle fibers are subjected to excessive tension. This can happen during activities that require sudden movements, heavy lifting, or excessive stretching beyond the normal range of motion. When a muscle is overstretched or forced to contract beyond its capacity, tiny tears can occur in the muscle fibers, leading to pain, swelling, and decreased function. Understanding this mechanism is crucial for both preventing injuries and managing recovery effectively.

In contrast, while impacts from a blow can certainly cause bruising or trauma to muscles, they do not specifically characterize a muscle strain. Involuntary spasms may contribute to discomfort but are typically not a direct cause of strains. Loss of blood supply can lead to muscle cramps or more severe complications, but it does not directly cause a muscle strain. Therefore, the correct choice aligns perfectly with the common causes identified in musculoskeletal injury literature.