Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/766890
People with recent injuries—cartilage tears, contusions, dislocations, fractures, joint sprains, muscle strains, muscle tears, whiplash injuries, or trauma from falls or car accidents—often seek help through massage therapy. In the early stages, common issues include acute pain, inflammation, joint stiffness, muscle guarding, and muscle tension caused by recruiting uninjured parts to help the body move along. Sadly, however, many people end up with chronic musculoskeletal issues when their injuries don't completely heal. Fibrotic tissue that is prone to reinjury, painful or restricted movement, postural warps, problems with joints due to uneven wear and tear, long-lasting muscle tightness, and, ultimately, chronic pain can result. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, it is seven times more likely that you will have arthritis in a joint if it has suffered trauma. 1 Editor's note: Massage therapist and Massage & Bodywork contributor Marybetts Sinclair fell while hiking and shattered her elbow in autumn 2015. This feature details her road to a splendid recovery and how she blended her knowledge with that of her medical team. She now uses her experience to help clients regain full function. C h e c k o u t A B M P 's l a t e s t n e w s a n d b l o g p o s t s . Av a i l a b l e a t w w w. a b m p . c o m . 73