Many people in California might think that the stereotypical fender bender is nothing to be concerned about from a health standpoint, especially if they do not immediately feel any type of pain. That, however, is not necessarily true. Even without the sensation of pain, an injury to the body’s soft tissue may have occurred and symptoms do not always manifest right away.
The Mayo Clinic explains that strains and sprains are two common types of injury to soft tissue. Both of these injuries involve some tissue being either torn or stretched. A strain involves damage to a tendon or muscle and a sprain involves damage to a ligament. Tendons are important because they are the connectors between bones and muscles. Ligaments perform important jobs in the joints holding two bones together.
According to WebMD, there are four elements commonly prescribed in the early stage treatment of a soft tissue injury. Because inflammation can often occur, the application of ice and elevation of the affected area may be recommended. Some people may benefit from having a compress on the area. In addition, rest can be encouraged in part so as to avoid exacerbating the injury.
Medications designed to reduce or prevent swelling as well as to minimize or eliminate pain may be prescribed. Treatment from a medical professional is recommended especially if pain is noticed near the bone or a person cannot move a joint or walk more than a few paces without pain. Some soft tissue injuries actually end up requiring surgery.
