The muscles of the lower extremities perform a critical function. They carry the load of the whole body. Each muscle element performs a specific task. The muscles of the lower extremities provide flexion, lifting, lowering of the legs, movement of the feet, fingers. All elements are closely interconnected. Violation of one of them leads to a malfunction in the functioning of the others. Of particular importance in the system are the muscles of the lower leg of the deep posterior group . They provide the bending of the legs, feet and fingers. One of the most important elements of this department is the popliteal muscle . Consider her.
Appointment
The popliteal muscle provides flexion and extension of the leg. In addition, it performs a safety function. It protects the femur from displacement during the transfer of body weight to one limb and when standing on the knees. In some cases, it begins to pull. In this case, during leg extension, pain occurs. With partial or complete muscle dysfunction, mobility of the knee joint is significantly limited. As a rule, this condition is temporary. However, if the traumatic factor acts continuously in the absence of proper treatment, mobility may be lost for a long time.
Damage reasons
The popliteal muscle is injured due to excessive load on the joint or when setting it in a position not characteristic of human anatomy. This element of the system is protected by other tissues. Therefore, only serious injury can interfere with its functioning. Causes of injury may include:
- Wearing high-heeled shoes. In such cases, additional pressure is applied to the tendon of the popliteal muscle.
- A sharp start from a static position. Stop and transfer of the center of gravity in such cases is carried out due to muscle overstrain. The risk group includes skiers, soccer players, athletes, skaters. It is worth saying that in trained people, the popliteal muscle is more or less adapted to such loads. Therefore, injuries usually occur in beginners.
- Careless movement over rough terrain, the need to overcome obstacles, a sharp transition from step to run and similar factors can create conditions for damage.
The popliteal muscle can also be disturbing after undergoing surgical interventions in the joint or pathologies that affect its structure. In addition, in practice, congenital disorders are detected. In such cases, underdevelopment of muscle tissue, permanent contracture (limited movement) of the joint of different severity is observed.
Help with injuries
The main symptoms of muscle damage are pulling pain, discomfort in the knee area. Sensations are especially pronounced during movement, during extension and bending of the leg. Spinal Therapy is based on natural regeneration. Damages of a minor nature are repaired themselves. If tears of ligaments and tissues take place, additional action is necessary. To speed up the recovery process, you should provide peace to the injured leg or a gentle regime. NSAIDs are allowed to reduce pain and inflammation, if any.
Massage
After a prolonged period of inactivity, muscle atrophy can occur. In this regard, with gentle mode, massage is prescribed. It helps to improve blood circulation, heats the muscle and does not load it. To do this, you need to sit on a chair. The leg must be bent at the knee and massage the popliteal region with medium effort. Movement must be careful. Excessive pressure must be avoided. In this area there are many fragile elements, so it is extremely undesirable to use any improvised means. Massage should be done with your fingers.
Additionally
In case of extensive injuries, accompanied by bruising and tears, you should immediately consult a doctor. As a rule, the patient assesses the severity of the damage based on his own feelings and the appearance of the injured area. In most cases, this approach is justified. However, if the damaged area looks normal, severe pain is absent, but at the same time there is no ability to fully bend / extend the leg for a long time, you should consult a doctor.