Soft tissue injuries include injuries to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Such injuries can take quite a long time to heal. Classic RICE treatments of rest, ice, compression, and elevation, are really helpful in encouraging these injuries to heal. However, there is also more you can do for soft tissue injuries. Here are some additional treatments and therapies to consider.

Massage

People often see massage as something to do when they want to relax and rest. But massage also has lots of therapeutic benefits and can speed up the healing of soft tissue injuries. Massage can increase circulation to the injured areas, bringing nutrients that the tissues need to heal on a cellular level. It can also help break up muscle adhesions that are limiting your movement around the injuries. This, in turn, can make it easier for you to slowly resume activities as your body heals. For best results, see a massage therapist who specializes in sports or deep tissue massage. These modalities tend to be more effective for soft tissue injuries than a gentler massage or a Swedish massage.

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care can be really beneficial if your soft tissue injury is anywhere in your back, neck, pelvis, shoulders, or even upper legs. By adjusting your spine, your chiropractor can reduce muscle tension in the areas affected by your injuries. Not only will this ease your pain, but it will allow improved circulation in the area, which should enhance your relief.

If you've been injured for a while, your injury may be impacting the way you've been sitting, standing, and moving. This can pull your spine out of alignment. An adjustment can correct that, helping to prevent future and secondary injuries.

Cortisone Injections

Cortisone is a steroid that stimulates the body to heal. It reduces inflammation and helps recruit white blood cells to the area, speeding healing. Most medical practitioners won't recommend cortisone injections as a first line of treatment because they can be painful. However, if you have not experienced much healing from RICE and the other treatments above, then a cortisone injection may be a good choice. One injection in the painful area can do a world of good. Some patients need two or three, spaced a few months apart. 

If you're struggling with an injury, talk to your doctor about possible soft tissue healing treatments. There is a lot that can be done for these injuries, resulting in quicker healing.