Treatment for Pulled Muscles

 

Most people have suffered from a pulled muscle at one time or another. Many things can cause it and Dr. Jay McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic and Wellness Center in Nitro, WV offers chiropractic care that can help your recovery. You can begin your treatment at home with ice and rest. 

Chiropractic adjustment

Chiropractic adjustment may not be the first thing that comes to mind when discussing treatments for pulled muscles. Chiropractic, however, unlike traditional medicine, doesn't just treat symptoms, it goes to the root cause of pain and health issues. By correcting any misalignment in the spine, messages get through from the brain that will encourage healing. The body has an amazing ability to heal itself, it may just need a little help to allow that to happen. Soft tissue adjustment help to increase the circulation to the area. 

Massage therapy

While massage works very well with chiropractic adjustment, it isn't all about the feel-good relaxation that is provided at a spa. Tense muscles make adjustments more difficult and providing relaxation can help to improve the efficiency of not just spinal adjustments but other chiropractic treatments. For pulled muscles, deeper types of massage can help to release some of the knots that may have formed in the muscles. Rehabilitation massage can help the muscles to heal from an injury. 

Electric muscle stimulation

Electrical muscle stimulation uses a low level of electric current to help the muscles to heal themselves.  When the current is applied to the area requiring treatment, it causes the muscles to contract. After a few minutes, the muscles get tired and relax, which helps to relieve pain and reduce swelling. The therapy encourages the production of endorphins, which are your body's natural pain relievers. 

Ultrasound therapy

Ultrasound therapy uses sound waves to vibrate and heat the tissue deep below the skin. This is very helpful in reducing the formation of scar tissue and decreasing pain. But most importantly, it promotes healing at the cellular level and that will speed up the healing process. 

Therapeutic exercise

Therapeutic exercise begins in the chiropractor's office where you will be shown exercises that are specific to the area where your pulled muscle is located. These exercises can help to improve mobility, stability, strength, and balance. It will also allow you to continue your healing between your office visits. Stretching is an important part of therapeutic exercise and will no doubt be included. 

Dr. McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic and Wellness Center provides the non-invasive care your pulled muscle requires. Dr. McClanahan serves Nitro, Cross Lanes, Charleston, St. Albans, and Teays Valley, WV. To make an appointment, call our office at 304-776-1520 or use the form on our website.