Soft tissue injuries affect the ligaments, muscles, and joints. These types of injuries are common in athletes, but can also be the result of a sedentary lifestyle. Patients that suffer from soft tissue injury may include office professionals who spend hours working on a computer or other desk-related activities. Limited movement can contribute to specific soft tissue problems. Patients with otherwise limited movement may also find themselves in a state of atrophy, causing further stress to their soft tissue. Like any medical condition, it is important to assess the situation and develop a holistic approach to relieve symptoms to the fullest extent.

Nutrition

Healthy eating habits are a good idea in any case. However, certain supplements are considered helpful for soft tissue injuries. While some remedies are as simple as getting a daily dose of vitamin D, others are best described by a doctor. Certain foods may be beneficial, including salmon, blueberries, and strawberries. Fruits such as grapes and apples contain quercetin and may also alleviate symptoms. The best thing to do is ask a chiropractor, or doctor, what type of nutrition plan to follow to treat soft tissue problems.

Chiropractic Adjustment

Visiting a chiropractor for a spinal adjustment may help soft tissue injuries. Proper alignment is the goal of these adjustments. The chiropractor will position the patient and use the hands to realign the spine. This process may be limited in patients with deep tissue injuries. The limited range of movement and associated pain is caused by scar tissue brought on by the healing process.

Massage

Deep tissue massage may be performed by a chiropractor or masseuse who will manipulate the tissue with the hands. This attempt to move and rearrange the scar tissue can be effective when the correct area is stimulated. Massage is a productive component of the comprehensive therapy program because it helps to improve blood flow and reduce excessive scar tissue.

Instrument-assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)

Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization, known as IASTM, assists a chiropractor or massage therapist in finding the target area of scar tissue. These instruments are used manually by the therapist to find injured tissue that may be deep down and out of reach of the hand. The instruments are pressed into the injured area. There may be some resulting discomfort and bruising as blood flow to the area increases. This is a normal part of the process.

Exercise

Exercises to increase motion after an injury to the soft tissue mostly consists of stretches assigned by the therapist. These stretches can be done on a patient’s own time throughout the day between visits to keep up a daily repair regimen.

Chiropractic care and a complete range of therapy can immensely decrease the uncomfortable symptoms associated with deep tissue injury. This holistic approach can decrease healing time, thus increasing quality movement and returning the patient to his or her regular activity level as soon as possible.

For more information about chiropractic care, contact Horst Chiropractic today.