What You Should Know About
SOFT TISSUE INJURIES

SYMPTOMS:

• Inflammation (swelling)
• Redness - due to increased blood flow to injured area
• Warmth - more blood in affected area increases temperature
• Pain - OUCH!! That Hurts!!
• Decreased motion and strength
• Decreased function (ability to do things)
  
  

HEALING TIME:

• Typically within one week for mild injuries
• 2 - 8 weeks for more severe cases
  
  

MEDICAL TREATMENT:

• Rest
• Medication - pain relievers, anti-inflammatories (steroid and non-steroidal), muscle relaxers, injections
• Warm-cold compresses/soaks
• Immobilization - prevention/limiting of movement with braces, slings, bandages, etc.
• Limiting home, work, and play activities
• Progress to light stretching/strengthening exercise when indicated
• X-rays, MRI's, nerve conduction/EMG's, etc. very infrequently
• Surgery in only rare cases
• Conservative physical therapy if healing rate is slow and/or symptoms persist
  

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PHYSICAL THERAPY TREATMENT:

• Although most soft tissue injuries do not require physical therapy, your doctor may refer (send) you to a licensed physical therapist if you need a little additional help with the healing process.
• The physical therapist will perform a complete evaluation and determine the proper treatment for your condition (under your physician's direction).
• The physical therapist may treat you with soothing moist heat, ultrasound, massage techniques, whirlpool, electrical stimulation, traction and flexibility/strengthening exercises.
• You can expect some degree of discomfort, especially early on, from your treatment.
• Most injuries recover within 6 - 9 visits (2 - 4 weeks) at the therapy office.
• A home program will be provided to you from your physical therapist so that you can treat yourself and facilitate the healing process.
• Your physical therapist will keep your doctor informed of your progress while you attend your therapy sessions.
  

If you would like to speak to a licensed physical therapist to learn more about physical therapy or soft tissue injuries, please call :

THE pt GROUP

1-888-PT-FOR-YOU
(1-888-783-6796)