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MUSCLE STRAINS AND OVERUSE INJURIES

Care for pulled muscles and overuse injuries from sports, yard work and everyday life, in Carefree on the Cave Creek border. In most cases we can see you the same day.

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WHAT ARE STRAINS AND OVERUSE INJURIES?

A strain is an overstretched or torn muscle, often called a pulled muscle. Strains are most common in the legs, feet and back. Overuse injuries build up from repeating the same motion, like a swing, a serve or a long day of yard work.

Most strains improve within about two weeks, but severe ones can take months.

WHAT YOU CAN DO AT HOME

For the first two or three days:

  • Protect the area, for example with a support or supportive shoes
  • Rest it, and avoid putting weight on it
  • Use a wrapped ice pack for up to 20 minutes every two to three hours
  • Use a bandage for support during the day, and raise the area on a pillow when you can
  • Avoid heat, alcohol and massage, which can increase swelling

Once you can move it without pain stopping you, keep it gently moving so it does not stiffen.

HOW WE HELP

Every visit starts with a conversation and a hands-on exam, and your first treatment usually happens the same day.

Exam firstWe check the injured area and how you move, and tell you plainly if you need imaging or a referral instead.
Soft tissue therapyHands-on work once the early swelling has settled.
Therapeutic exercisesExercises to rebuild strength and flexibility.
MassageTherapeutic massage for tight, overworked muscles, after the first few days.Learn more →
Return to activityA plan to build back up without reinjuring it.
Clear planWe tell you what to expect and check your progress each visit. As ChiroTrust members, we do not use unnecessary long-term plans.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Should I use ice or heat?
Ice works best for new or acute injuries. Heat helps with subacute and chronic conditions. For a new strain, use ice for the first two or three days and avoid heat in that time, since it can increase swelling.
How long until I can play again?
Most strains improve within about two weeks. Avoid strenuous activity, like running, for up to eight weeks to lower the chance of reinjury.
What is the difference between a strain and a sprain?
A strain is an overstretched or torn muscle. A sprain is a twisted or torn ligament, the tissue that connects bones at a joint.
Can I be seen the same day?
In most cases, yes. Call 480-488-1282, or request an appointment online and we will call you back.

REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Tell us when works best and we will call you to confirm, usually within one business day. In a hurry? Call 480-488-1282.

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