Muscle strains are a tearing of your muscle fibers or tendons -- the cords that link your bones with your muscles. Muscle strains, according to MayoClinic.com, are most common in your lower back muscles and your hamstrings, the muscle group in the back of your thigh. Numerous supplements may be helpful in treating your muscle strains, but avoid using dietary supplements until you have discussed the immediate and long-term health implications of this natural treatment method with a doctor.
Muscle Strains
There are two principle types of muscle strain -- acute and chronic. Acute muscle strains may be caused by lifting a heavy object while using poor form, performing vigorous movements and slipping on ice or another smooth surface. Chronic muscle stains may be caused by prolonged, repetitive movements. Participation in certain activities -- gymnastics, golf, tennis -- may increase your likelihood of developing a chronic muscle strain. If your muscle strain is severe, you may require surgery to fix your injured muscle tissue.
Commonly Used Supplements
There are numerous herbal and non-herbal dietary supplements that are commonly used in treating muscle injuries such as strains or tears. In "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch lists many dietary supplements that have historically been used in treating muscle damage, including MSM, bromelain, zinc, vitamin E, boswellia, goldenseal, amino acids, turmeric, dimethylglycine, ginger, green tea, grape seed extract and a multivitamin and mineral complex. More scientific evidence may be required to determine these supplements' effectiveness.
Highlighted Supplement
MSM is a commonly prescribed dietary supplement that may be helpful in treating your muscle strains. MSM has traditionally been used to help treat musculoskeletal pain and inflammation and heal injured tissues. MSM, states Balch, is a derivative of dimethysulfoxide, or DMSO -- a substance that is well-known for its therapeutic properties and its ability to heal your injuries. MSM is present naturally in certain foods, although most North Americans may not get sufficient amounts of this substance in their diet.
Warning
In most cases, muscle strains will self-resolve or may be aided by various conservative care measures, including dietary supplements. However, if you suffer a severe muscle strain, you may be unable to walk or perform your usual and customary activities of daily living. If you experience a severe muscle strain, report to a qualified health-care professional to be assessed. Your health-care provider can make helpful treatment recommendations. Avoid using dietary supplements unless you are under the guidance of a licensed health-care professional.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Sprains and Strains
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
