Strains and Sprains

Introduction.

A strain is a minor injury to a muscle, causing stiffness and soreness to muscles and are most frequently experienced in the groin, thigh, shoulder or calf. Strains are invariably caused by people suddenly indulging in an activity that they are unprepared. This could be strenuous exercise having not built up to it gradually or not having warmed up properly before exercising. Alternatively you might have strained yourself through a home improvement, cleaning or gardening activity that you don’t do on a regular basis. A sprain is a more painful and potentially more serious form of strain. Sprains can occur in muscles, ligaments and tendons that are usually around a joint in the body – knee, elbow, hip etc.

Supplements to help strains and sprains.

If a strain or sprain is causing considerable discomfort then, of course, seek professional medical advice. Otherwise, there are several health supplements that can help to soothe strains and sprains when they occur. Bromelain is an enzyme from the pineapple plant that can reduce inflammation and, therefore, levels of pain, by increasing the blood flow. Take 500mg of Bromelain three times a day on an empty stomach. Glucosamine helps to build up cartilage, the body’s shock absorbers, around your joints and ligaments. Take 500mg three times a day with food. Also, taking 500mg of vitamin C and 200mg of flavonoids three times a day will also be beneficial in helping to heal damaged connective tissue and muscles. Health supplements you can make your own oils and ointments for massaging into strains and sprains are arnica, turmeric, sweet marjoram and rosemary oil.

Other things for strains and sprains.

There are a range of things you can do to help alleviate the discomfort of strains and sprains – including, will you believe – RICE. Not the starchy stuff we like with meals but; Rest the injured body part, apply Ice to the injured body part, try applying a Compress to the injured part using elasticated bandages and, finally, Elevate the injured part above the heart to increase blood flow to it.