When will your tissue heal?

Photo by Erwans Socks on Unsplash

Tissue injuries are common and can range in severity from a minor bruise to a major tear. The amount of time it takes for a tissue injury to heal depends on the severity of the injury, the location of the injury, and the person's overall health.

Mild injuries, such as bruises, may heal within a few days or weeks. Moderate injuries, such as strains and sprains, may take several weeks or months to heal. Serious injuries, such as tendon tears, may take several months or even years to heal.

The body goes through four phases of healing when it is injured:

Inflammation: This is the body's natural response to injury. It involves increased blood flow to the injured area, which brings white blood cells to fight infection and remove damaged tissue. Inflammation usually lasts for 3-5 days.

Proliferation: This is the phase of healing when new tissue is formed to replace the damaged tissue. This phase can last for several weeks or months.

Maturation: This is the phase of healing when the new tissue is remodeled and strengthened. This phase can last for several months or years.

Remodeling: This is the final phase of healing when the new tissue is fully integrated into the body. This phase can last for several years.

There are a number of things that can help to speed up the healing process for tissue injuries, including:

Rest: Resting the injured area allows the body to focus on healing.

Compression: Compressing the injured area helps to reduce swelling.

Elevation: Elevating the injured area helps to reduce swelling.

Over-the-counter pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help to reduce pain and inflammation.

Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to improve range of motion, strength, and flexibility in the injured area.

If you have a tissue injury, it is important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis and treatment plan. With proper care, most tissue injuries will heal completely.

Tips for Preventing Tissue Injuries:

The best way to prevent tissue injuries is to be aware of the risks and take steps to avoid them. Here are some tips for preventing tissue injuries:

Warm up before exercising. Warming up helps to prepare your body for activity and reduces the risk of injury.

Stretch and soft tissue mobilization after exercising. Foam rolling and stretching help to improve flexibility, improve blood flow, and reduce the risk of injury.

Use proper technique when exercising. Using proper techniques helps to reduce the risk of injury.

Wear proper gear. Wearing proper clothing, shoes, and gear, such as helmets and pads, can help to prevent injuries.

Listen to your body. If you are feeling pain, stop what you are doing and rest. Pushing through pain can increase the risk of injury.

If you want to learn more and get rid of your aches, and pains, or help recover from an injury, contact PAR5 Physical Therapy for more information.

PAR 5 Physical Therapy specializes in helping active individuals in Morris County, NJ get back to exercising and working out pain-free without taking time off or relying on injections/pain medication. PAR5PT offers physical therapy and performance services to all populations, with specialties in Orthopedics, Golf Fitness Training and Rehab, Manual Therapy Techniques, and Wellness Services.

If you’re dealing with anything, big or small, and you have questions, just call/text 973-490-4955.