Your chest muscles, also known as your pectoralis major muscles, help you perform several important arm actions, including rotating your arms inward. SportsInjuryClinic.net states that most pectoral muscle injuries occur at the point where your pectoralis major muscle inserts, or attaches, into your humerus, or upper arm bone, although your muscle belly may also develop tears, or strains. Ask your family physician if dietary supplements are right for you and your musculoskeletal injury.
Torn Pectoral Muscle
A muscle strain occurs when your muscle fibers are stretched beyond their normal ability to lengthen and subsequently tear. MayoClinic.com states that there are two types of strains, or tears: acute and chronic. Both types of strain may affect your pectoral muscles. Muscle strains are graded as mild, moderate or severe based on the level of pain and dysfunction caused by your injury. If you suffer a torn pectoral muscle, you may experience chest pain, swelling and bruising.
Healing Supplements
Certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," lists numerous supplements that may be helpful in treating muscle tears, including pectoral muscle tears, or strains. Some of the most effective dietary supplements in treating this condition may include bromelain, MSM, N-acetyl-glucosamine, curcumin, calcium and magnesium, a multivitamin and mineral complex, bioflavonoids, and nettle leaf. Further clinical research studies may be necessary to validate these supplements' purported health benefits.
A Useful Supplement
Bromelain may be a useful supplement and helpful adjunct therapy in the treatment of your torn chest muscle. Bromelain, notes MedlinePlus, is an enzyme contained in pineapple juice, and it has traditionally been used in treating inflammation and swelling -- two common symptoms associated with a torn chest muscle. This supplement has also been used to prevent muscle soreness following vigorous exercise, although little research evidence exists to substantiate this purported health benefit.
Disclaimer
A torn chest muscle may affect your ability to work or perform your usual recreational activities, which can significantly affect your quality of life. Though supplements may help heal your torn chest muscle, these natural healing agents should always be treated with the same level of caution applied to the use of prescription drugs. Dietary supplements may contain powerful active ingredients. If you experience undesired health side effects, immediately discontinue the use of any supplements and consult your doctor.
References
- SportsInjuryClinic.net: Tear of the Pectoralis Major Tendon
- MayoClinic.com: Sprains and Strains
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- MedlinePlus: Bromelain
