If you've ever suffered a muscle sprain or strain while playing sports or being active in Altamonte Springs, FL, you know how debilitating these injuries can be. Our chiropractors at Beyond Medical are experts at treating muscle sprains and strains to help you heal quickly and completely.
Understanding Muscle Sprains vs. Strains
Knowing the difference between a sprain and a strain is key to proper treatment and recovery. A sprain refers to torn or overstretched ligaments, which connect bones at joints. Common examples include ankle or knee sprains. A strain, on the other hand, is an injury to a muscle or tendon, which attaches muscle to bone.
Strains often occur in muscles such as the hamstrings, quadriceps, and calf muscles. While the injuries differ, both sprains and strains cause similar symptoms, including pain, swelling, and impaired function. Seeking prompt treatment from a sports chiropractor can minimize damage and get you back on your feet faster.
Treating Acute Muscle Injuries
In the acute stage, immediately after an injury, the sports chiropractors at Beyond Medical focus on limiting initial damage and controlling inflammation. They may recommend using ice, compression, elevation, and gentle stretching to reduce swelling. Taping or bracing may also be applied to immobilize the injured area.
Chiropractic adjustments help alleviate muscle spasms and restore proper joint mobility, while massage therapy increases blood flow to aid in the healing process. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications may also be recommended. The goal at this stage is to control pain and facilitate the body’s natural healing response.
Rehabilitating Sprains & Strains
Once the acute phase has passed, rehabilitation exercises become a priority. Your sports chiropractor will prescribe exercises designed to gradually restore strength, flexibility, and function to the injured area. These exercises may include stretching, light resistance training, and low-impact cardiovascular activities. Continued chiropractic adjustments ensure proper joint movement and help reduce compensatory patterns that can hinder recovery.
Additional treatments, such as massage therapy, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation, are often employed to improve blood flow and relax the muscles. During the rehabilitation process, your chiropractor will modify your activities to avoid re-injury. With a personalized recovery plan, you’ll regain mobility and be able to return to sports safely.
Find Relief From Muscle Sprains and Strains
Don’t let a muscle sprain or strain keep you sidelined unnecessarily. Our sports injury experts at Beyond Medical in Altamonte Springs work to control inflammation, restore movement, and strengthen the injured area so you can recover quickly. Schedule an appointment with a chiropractor near you today and start feeling like yourself again!
