November 8 2009
It has been my experience when treating patients for conditions such as muscle or joint pain that the instant the patient begins to feel relief they are quick to resume their pre-injury daily duties, activities, and lifestyle…and more! Keep in mind healing has only begun and the injury has not fully recovered.
At this crucial point of healing, it is pertinent to treat the area of concern with utmost sensitivity. Allow the area to be free of any strain, pressure, or movement as possible. Although the area may feel better, it does not necessarily mean the area has completely healed. Resuming daily activity can cause the recovery process to take longer or not occur at all. It can also re-aggravate the pre-existing condition to its original pain level or even cause the same condition to re-appear in the future.
Often times I have patients who feel they need to exercise the injured area right away to build strength. Please, please, please….a big N-O. Inactivity and rest allows the body to do what it does best…heal itself from within, while proper treatment taken by the patient enhances the healing process.
Below are some ideas to keep in mind:
· Keep area of concern relaxed and free of any repetitive movement or daily activity. Practice using opposite limb as your dominate side.
· Keep area warm to allow a consistent flow of blood circulation to nourish and heal the area of concern and keep the injury from getting stiff or tight.
· Once full recovery has been reached, begin with light exercise and stretches.
· Remain consistent with the number of treatments recommended by your health practitioner; it usually takes a series of office visits to recover.
