Pulled Muscles

What is a Pulled Muscle?

The human body has hundreds of muscles.  The muscles that people are most familiar with are the ones that move bones - such as the biceps that move the elbow or the hamstrings that move the knee.

When a muscle is overloaded or overstretched, it begins to break down.  This process can occur at varying degrees but involves tearing of the muscular tissue.  In order for the muscle to heal, the tissue must undergo an initial period of rest.  During this rest period, the muscle must be moved to encourage blood flow but not overloaded to a point of further damage.  After a brief period of rest, the muscle must be stretched, stimulated, and strengthened.  This process can take anywhere from 2-8 weeks, depending on the severity of the injury, to restore the muscle to full capacity.  

If not properly treated, a muscle strain can turn into a weak point that is vulnerable to re-injury.  If you are dealing with a new or old muscle strain, call MOMENTUM Physical Therapy today at 403-982-5600 to find out how our therapists can help heal any sore and strained muscles. 

Stephen Uhrbach is the clinic owner and lead physiotherapist at MOMENTUM Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab Ltd. located in Okotoks, AB.

Good Pain vs. Bad Pain

Should I Run or Exercise Through Pain?

Often the catch phrase “no pain, no gain” is tossed around when people run or exercise.  Although some “pain” can be of benefit, it is most often a sign of dysfunction and potential injury.   At Momentum, when we return our athletes to their sport of choice, we very clearly differentiate the difference between good pain and bad pain.

Good pain occurs when muscles fatigue as the result of a training regime.  This pain should be very predictable, feel like fatigue, and resolve quickly with appropriate rest.

Bad pain occurs when muscles, tendons, ligaments, or bones are used incorrectly and begin to break down.  This pain can lead to tendon, muscle, or bone injuries that can require a lengthly rehabilitation process.  This pain exceeds levels of normal fatigue and can be burning, sharp, aching, and throbbing.  

If you feel like you are dealing with any episodes of “bad pain”, or want to learn more about harnessing “good pain”, call Momentum today to find out how we can help!

Stephen Uhrbach is the clinic owner and lead physiotherapist at MOMENTUM Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab Ltd. located in Okotoks, AB.

Golfer's Elbow

What is Golfer's Elbow?

Golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis, is irritation to the muscles and tendons that attach to the inside of the elbow. It is typically caused by repetitive movements of the forearm and wrist and can be related to a number of different sports and work tasks, not just golfing! Symptoms include pain at the inside of the elbow, especially with actions like gripping and opening things like doorknobs or jars. Treating golfer’s elbow will include a combination of rest, hands on treatment to relieve the muscle tightness and pain, intramuscular stimulation (IMS) with needles, and specific stretches and exercises to strengthen the muscles to return to pain free function. You don’t have to keep living with pain. Call 403-982-5600 today to find out how our therapists can help you gain your Momentum back!

Raina Hawthorne is a physiotherapist at MOMENTUM Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab Ltd. located in Okotoks, AB.

Achilles Tendinitis

Can physical therapy help my Achilles tendinitis?

The Achilles tendon, located near the heel on the back of the leg, helps you run, jump and walk.  When it becomes damaged or irritated, pain and limited range of motion will start to slow you down.  Achilles tendinitis has a variety of causes, but for most it is often a result of overusing the tendon.  Symptoms include burning pain on the back of the leg by the heel, inflammation, pain or stiffness, and sometimes a bump can be felt externally.  Our therapists at MOMENTUM are well versed in treating this condition.  You will enjoy taking an active part in your rehab with us as we assess and treat your pain through a variety of hands-on treatments and lead you through appropriate exercises and stretches to get you moving again. If you’re suffering with pain, don’t wait! Contact MOMENTUM Physical Therapy today at 403-982-5600.

Stephen Uhrbach is the clinic owner and lead physiotherapist at MOMENTUM Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab Ltd. located in Okotoks, AB.

'Tis the Season... for Snow Shovelling!

How can I reduce my chance of injury from snow shovelling?

Winter in Alberta means snow, and usually lots of it!  For most of us that also means snow shovelling.  But it can also mean sprains, strains and back injuries if we don't follow a few simple rules when shovelling snow.

Prepare yourself by dressing properly and using the right tools; including a snow shovel that is designed to help you push the snow as opposed to lift it.  Other easy steps include:

• Keep your core muscles tight (like you are bracing your stomach to take a punch).  This will help to stabilize your back.
• Reduce the strain on your shoulders and back by keeping your back straight and your chest up.
• Push the snow instead of trying to lift it.  If you do need to lift it make sure to use your legs and take small scoops.
• Pace yourself and take breaks.
• If you feel pain, stop!

If you need help managing a strain or injury, or if you would like to talk about more injury prevention ideas, give us a call!   MOMENTUM Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab is here to help! 403-982-5600.

Stephen Uhrbach is the clinic owner and lead physiotherapist at MOMENTUM Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab Ltd. located in Okotoks, AB.