Physical activity or sport can cause muscle pain, a common and harmless phenomenon. But what if the pain seems to be more than that? Understanding the difference between muscle pain and injury is key to responding appropriately and keeping your body healthy. At Cornerstone Chiropractie, we are happy to help you make this distinction and optimally support your recovery.
Muscle pain, also known as Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS), usually occurs 12 to 24 hours after physical exercise. It's caused by tiny tears in muscle fibers, which are a natural part of muscle growth and repair. Muscle pain often feels dull and is usually limited to the muscles that you have used intensively. It often gets worse when moving, but gradually improves after a few days.
An injury, on the other hand, is your body's more immediate response to overload or trauma. This can manifest itself in sharp pain, swelling, bruising or a sense of instability. Injuries can range from a mild strain to a more serious tear or even a bone fracture. In contrast to muscle pain, an injury can significantly impair the normal function of the affected area.
It is important to observe your body closely and listen to the signals it is sending you. In case of muscle pain, you can usually keep moving, as long as you adjust the intensity and pay extra attention to warming up and cooling down. Light activity, such as walking , light stretching or pilates, can even help improve blood flow and accelerate recovery.
However, if you suspect you're dealing with an injury, rest is essential. Avoid activities that may further stress the affected area. Applying the RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) method in the first 48 hours after an injury can help reduce swelling and pain. Consult a professional if the pain persists or worsens, or if you suspect a serious injury.
After muscle pain, you can usually build back to your normal training routine within a few days. It's important to keep listening to your body and slowly increase the intensity. Pain that decreases while moving is often a sign that you can continue safely. In the event of an injury, it is crucial to balance rest and movement for optimal recovery. While you should avoid returning to full activity too soon, as this can risk further damage and prolong recovery, gentle movement within your pain limits is essential. This helps maintain circulation, reduce stiffness, and support the healing process. Always listen to your body and consult a professional if you're unsure about the right level of activity.
Hydration is essential for both muscle pain and injury. Water helps remove waste that builds up in your muscles during exercise. Add enough protein and antioxidants to your diet to support the recovery process. Think of foods like low-fat dairy, fish, nuts, and colourful fruits and vegetables.
For muscle pain, a warm bath or a light massage can provide relief. This promotes blood flow and helps the muscles to relax. In the event of an injury, physical therapy or chiropractic care can help accelerate healing and restore mobility. Our specialists at Cornerstone Chiropractice can offer you a customised treatment plan to make your recovery as smooth as possible.
Also, get enough sleep, as your body does most of the repair and repair work while resting. Try to avoid stress as it can delay the healing process. And remember to be patient; recovery takes time and listening to your body is the key to success.
At Cornerstone Chiropractie, we understand how important it is to recover quickly and safely from both muscle aches and injuries. Our professional approach is aimed at restoring balance in your body so that you can enjoy an active and healthy lifestyle again. Feel free to contact us for advice or an appointment. Together, we work on your recovery and well-being.
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