A questions we often get asked is, when is a good time to come for treatment? And the answer really depends on the nature and circumstances of the injury. For instance:
- Soft Tissue Damage: With soft tissue injuries (muscular tears, ligament sprains etc.), the general advice is to seek soft tissue therapy and rehabilitative support as soon as possible once the acute symptoms have reduced. This means allowing the swelling, bruising and inflammation to reduce before seeking treatment. If the swelling is too acute at the time of treatment then it limits the treatment options available. We would advise following the PEACE protocol (replacing RICE) immediately following a soft tissue injury in preparation for soft tissue treatment.
- Fractures & Breaks: This is where the advice differs to soft tissue injury. When it comes to the majority of fractures, breaks and dislocations it is important that you are cleared by your primary physician before receiving treatment. This is to ensure that appropriate bone remodeling has occurred before treatment. Once cleared, soft tissue treatment and rehabilitation is paramount in restoring function to the injured area, ensuring that the area regains strength and that any compensatory patterns are addressed.
- Post Surgery: If you have undergone surgery, soft tissue therapy can be incredibly beneficial in restoring function. Again, this must be cleared by the primary physician prior to receiving treatment. Soft tissue therapy can help to reduce scar tissue and improve fluid dynamics to the recovering tissue, aiding in recovery times.
- General Treatment: Many people seek soft tissue therapy to assist in their training, help manage day to day niggles or to address any aggravating postures such as the dreaded “desk posture”. Soft tissue therapy can be accessed at any point to help manage this, whether it be preventative or to help manage ongoing issues.
Blog by Josh Hatton – Level 5 Soft Tissue Therapist