“Particularly for muscle injuries, the blood works to lay collagen layers on the injury to heal it by forming an internal scab,” Mufich said, “and hopefully over time, as the muscles fibers heal, that collagen will break down.” Ligaments and tendons do not receive as much blood flow, so they tend to take longer to heal.
It is important to ease back into mobilizing the area and remain patient throughout the recovery process until your body is ready to return to pre-injury activities. Some discomfort throughout the healing process is normal. However, there should not be any sharp pain. A health care provider can recommend proper rehabilitation practices and exercise.
Sprain, strains, and tears can generally be prevented by adequately warming up and stretching prior to rigorous activity, wearing protective equipment, wearing properly fitting shoes that provide stability and building and maintaining muscle and joint strength by exercising regularly.
“While it is great to push your limits, know your limits,” Mufich said. “If you are not seeing improvements within 24 hours or it is getting worse, contact a health care provider.”
