Soft tissue injuries are those associated with ligaments, muscles, and tendons. Some of these injuries are minor, while others are serious enough to result in surgery.
Here are some of the most common types of soft tissue injuries:
• Strain: Affecting the muscle or tendon, a strain is a severe stretch or tear that causes pain, swelling, bruising, and bleeding. A strain can result in severe weakness in the affected area. Fortunately, at-home treatment is generally effective, with a focus on rest, ice, compression, and elevation.
• Sprain: A sprain is similar to a strain but it affects a ligament. Symptoms include but are not limited to limited use of the injured area, pain, bruising, and swelling.
• Contusion: Also known as a bruise, a contusion comes about when blood leaks into skin tissue. Subsequently, you’ll notice a discoloration that’s often associated with pain. In most cases, contusions heal on their own without medical attention.
If you suspect a soft tissue injury, proper treatment is necessary to make a fast and full recovery. Should you have concerns of a more serious injury, don’t hesitate to consult with a medical professional to learn more. You never want to take a risk with an injury — even one that appears to be minor.
Jennifer Ferdinand, owner of Serendipity Wellness Studio in Burke, VA, has been practicing massage therapy and esthetics since 2006. She is nationally certified through NCBTMB, and licensed in Virginia for both Massage Therapy and Esthetics.
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