The 3 Stages of Healing

Most people have at one time or another been injured whether it be from sports, or otherwise. Some injuries if not properly healed can cause a lifetime of pain or promote further injuries to surrounding bones, joints, tendons and cartilage. There are three main stages of injury healing, no matter how it occurred.

1. The Acute or Inflammatory Stage. Immediately after an injury occurs, inflammation occurs. Inflammation is characterized by pain, swelling, and redness that happens at the site that is damaged. This natural response by the body is its way of protecting the injured part of the body and releasing chemicals that will help with the pain and discomfort. Scar tissue also starts to form at this stage of healing, and rest is highly recommended. Depending on the severity of the injury, gentle movements and/or physical therapy may be beneficial, as may essential oils which can aid in pain management and healing.

2. The Sub Acute Stage. This part of the healing process is usually at least four days after the injury occurred. The body starts to grow more tissues, and starts repairing what was damaged in the first place. Since the tissues are new, the person sustaining the injury must be very careful not to damage them, as this could result in even more pain than the original trauma. Mild exercises when done right can help to strengthen the damaged area.

3. The Chronic Stage. The area that sustained injury is now well into healing, and scar tissue has now been modified by the body. By this point, people usually will not feel any more pain, except when overuse or the joint reaches its full range of motion. Exercise, physical therapy, and lots of joint movement is highly recommended, to develop the scar tissue further. This stage of healing may last for months, and even years in extreme injuries.

By taking care of yourself and recognizing what your body needs after sustaining an injury is directly related to how well it heals. Of course injury prevention is possible in most cases, if you are in good shape, flexible, and properly prepared for the sport or activity you have in mind. Joint support supplements are also a great way to prevent injuries.