Muscles, ligaments, and tendons that connect and support our bodies are known as soft tissues. Injuries to these connective tissues are common, and can be caused during exercise, falls, or simple everyday activities. Common soft tissue injuries include sprains, strains, contusions (bruises), tendinitis and bursitis. The result can be pain, swelling, bruising, and damage.
Soft-tissue injuries are classified as either acute injuries or overuse injuries. Acute injuries are caused by a sudden trauma like a fall, twist, or impact to the body. Overuse injuries occur gradually over time when an activity is repeated so often that particular areas of the body do not have adequate time to recover between occurrences. There are only so many times you can bend a paperclip before it snaps.
For many years, R.I.C.E. has been the protocol for soft tissue injury treatment–this plan emphasizes rest and letting the injury heal on its own. Now, however, we advise P.E.A.C.E & L.O.V.E, as we now know that supporting an injury by following a rehab plan that encourages blood flow to the area and strengthens the area gradually can help accelerate healing as well as help achieve a more complete recovery from soft tissue injuries.
Questions about your recovery plan? Our chiropractors would be happy to help!