There are various ways one can treat muscle pain, such as through deep tissue massage, rest, and taking anti-inflammatory medication. Furthermore, participating in a physical therapy program that teaches corrective exercises may be beneficial in alleviating pain caused by a muscle injury. Additional treatments include cortisone injections and ultrasound treatment. If the pain is caused by fibromyalgia, then treating it may depend on proper exercise and stress reduction methods.
Rest
The most suitable kind of treatment for muscle pain may differ depending on the underlying cause. The first step for treating any kind of pain that is caused by a specific activity is to simply refrain from engaging in that activity to allow the muscle to heal undisturbed. Muscle pain may be the result of many factors such as overuse, torn muscle fibers, and ailments like fibromyalgia; therefore, treatments can be highly variable. In conjunction with rest, doctors will prescribe over-the-counter pain alleviating medications for light muscle injuries.
Deep Tissue Massage
A common muscle pain treatment is deep tissue massage. When one’s muscles are strained and overworked, the damage is mended by scar tissue. In the long term, accumulation of scar tissue will occur, which causes pain. Fortunately, deep tissue massage is extremely adept at ridding the body of scar tissue; this will allow proper function of the muscle once again. This treatment may sometimes be referred to as trigger point or sports massage.
Stretching and Strengthening
Discomfort that is caused by physical trauma may need to be treated with a comprehensive stretching and strengthening routine. In the beginning, the treatment will primarily focus on alleviating inflammation and allowing the muscle to loosen up. Once the initial pain is no longer present, lengthening the muscles through stretching is beneficial in maintaining their proper function. Performing strengthening exercises may lower the chances of suffering an injury in the first place, or at least in the future.
Ultrasound
There are many treatments that a physiotherapist may employ when dealing with muscle pain. For instance, ultrasound is effective at destroying scar tissue underneath the surface of the muscle. A direct injection of an anti-inflammatory drug, such as cortisone, may be beneficial in reducing pain if swelling is present. Treating the muscle directly with heat can alleviate chronic pain by allowing the muscle fibers to relax.
Stress Reduction
Those suffering from fibromyalgia may experience a great amount of muscle pain. It is important to make the distinction that the pain isn’t due to inflammation, therefore treatment will be different. Typically, fibromyalgia treatment will involve teaching the patient about his or her ailment, as well as finding ways to reduce stress levels. Performing basic, light exercises that do not result in pain is also crucial. A doctor will be able to prescribe some medication for patients who need to have some of their discomfort alleviated, if their condition is serious enough.
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