Injuries can profoundly impact our daily lives, and undoubtedly, we all want to recover as quickly as possible after a personal injury. That said, going to a medical professional is daunting for some. If you prefer to avoid the doctor or are simply seeking temporary relief, the following treatments can provide some comfort while you heal from your injuries.
Treatment for Sprains and Strains
If you experience tingling, shooting pain, or cold sensitivity near the injury site, it may signify nerve damage. A typical home remedy for these sensations is to soak in a warm Epsom salt bath. You will want to remain in the tub for at least 20 minutes, but in this case, the longer you soak, the better.
Be sure to keep up with the treatment daily. If your condition does not improve or worsens, consider scheduling an appointment with your physician or homeopathic specialist to evaluate your injury.
Epsom salt baths can also provide pain relief from other injuries, including sprains, strains, bruising, tenderness, swelling, and muscle stiffness. However, remember that injuries take time to heal and to be cautious in the meantime.
Rest and Relaxation
Rest and relaxation are perhaps the two most uttered words in injuries, and for a good reason. One of the best things you can do for an injury is to leave it alone. However, you may want some additional relief from pain.
If your injury is fresh, alternate between hot and cold compresses and make sure you keep the injured limb above heart level while you rest; this will help reduce swelling by pulling fluid away from the injury site.
The rule of thumb is to ice the injury for 20 minutes and then let it rest for a few hours. Once you’ve allowed the area to rest, apply heat to the injury for at least 20 minutes. Alternate between ice and heat to reduce swelling.
Take some time to relax. No one likes to put life on hold, but resting is essential if you’ve experienced bodily trauma. At the very least, try to get a good night’s rest and elevate the injury as often as possible for at least the first few days.
Incorporate A Healthy Diet
Diet is critical in recovering from an injury. Ensure that you reach for healthy meals and snacks that will provide fuel for your body while recovering. Remember that you are shortening your healing time by giving your body what it needs during recovery.
Your body needs certain building blocks while healing. Make sure you enjoy foods rich in Omega-3 fats, such as salmon and cod liver oil. Healthy fats can help lubricate joints and heal tissue. Eating healthy can help you fight off infections while you heal.
Be sure to eat foods rich in protein and calcium, as they are the building blocks for strengthening bones and repairing muscles. You may need more or less depending on your body type and physical activity level.
Pain Management
Herbal treatments can do wonders for minor injuries. Cramp bark and kava are fantastic for muscle spasms and cramping, and we know willow bark to reduce inflammation. We know turmeric root as the herb that stains our fabrics, countertops but it has potent anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.
If the injury is painful to move, use a sling to restrict arm movements or a boot designed to limit foot movements. Depending on the type of injury sustained, you may benefit from protective gear like knee or elbow braces or finger splints. If standing causes you pain, crutches can provide some relief during movement.
Remember to be patient with your body while you are healing. Allow your body ample time to heal before you return to your routine. Do not jump right back into physical activity, like working out or playing sports. Most of all, do not overwork the injured area, lest you make the injury worse. Remember to take baby steps and listen to your body.
An Important Note
Remember that home remedies are not a cure-all for severe injuries. If you are in significant pain or your injury persists, it may be time to seek medical attention.
If your injury is not healing, it may be because of underlying muscle weakness, nutrient deficiency, or scar tissue limiting your range of motion. Professionals like athletic therapists, naturopathic doctors, and physiotherapists can provide various treatments to help you heal, including exercises, acupuncture, injection therapies, and laser therapy.
