What term is used to describe the stretching of a muscle?

The term that describes the stretching of a muscle is "strain." A strain typically refers to an injury that occurs when a muscle or tendon is overstretched or torn, which can happen during physical activities that require sudden movements or overexertion. When we talk about a muscle being stretched, we are often referring to the extent of this stretching, which can lead to discomfort or pain if the stretch is beyond the muscle's capacity.

In contrast, a sprain relates specifically to the ligaments, which connect bones to other bones, rather than to muscles. A tear generally indicates a more severe injury where the muscle or tendon fibers are partially or completely ruptured, while a rupture suggests a complete break, often resulting in the muscle being torn away from its attachment. The use of the term "strain" is thus particularly fitting for describing the stretching of a muscle itself.