If you're suffering from a muscle pull or muscle strain, here is some advice from Dr. Lyndon McGill, Chiropractor, at The Spine Clinic in Salem, Oregon.
A pulled muscle is really a strain. It occurs when your muscles are overworked or torn. Strains happen most commonly in the lower back, neck, shoulders, or hamstring but they can occur in any muscle.
In addition to muscle soreness, you may experience mild or severe pain. There may be inflammation and sometimes bruising around the muscle area.
If you have pulled muscles or are experiencing muscle pain, you should first try the “RICE” therapy.
REST: You need to rest the muscles for 24 to 48 hours, including not putting any weight on the affected area or lifting. Avoid using the muscle in any way if possible.
ICE: Ice can help with both the pain and any swelling. A bag of ice should be used on the injured area for 10 minutes at a time with a break of 30 minutes in between each treatment. Don’t put the ice directly on your skin but wrap it in a bag or cloth first.
COMPRESSION: Wrap the affected area with an elastic bandage or compression sleeve. This will also help with swelling and provide support.
ELEVATION: If possible, lie down and keep the pulled muscle about the level of your heart.
This therapy is particularly important during the first 3 days after you experience a pulled muscle. The pain and tenderness should gradually fade but can take weeks or months depending on the severity. If it doesn't go away on its own, it might be time to see the doctor.
In addition, you may need rehab, physical therapy, or chiropractic adjustments to heal and get back to a normal routine.
While spinal adjustments are the cornerstone of chiropractic care, there are other therapies that may help as well. Spinal adjustments help realign the vertebrae to relieve pressure on the spinal cord which can help with healing. Ultrasound treatments can improve circulation and reduce pain. Galvanic muscle stimulation also helps reduce pain. Massage helps aid blow flow and loosen tense and damaged muscles.
The specific treatment plan you need will be determined during an office visit and discussion with your chiropractor. Your initial visit may include diagnostic images, such as X-rays, range-of-motion testing, and a comprehensive exam.
If you have pain from pulled muscles, let Dr. Lyndon McGill, Chiropractor, at The Spine Clinic in Salem help. Schedule an appointment today.
The Spine Clinic
1281 Lancaster Drive NE
Salem, OR 97301 1959
Phone:(503) 362-5555
Email: The Spine Clinic
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