All About Muscle Injuries

All physical activity creates stress on the body, whether it is shoveling in the winter, mowing the lawn in the summer, playing sports or engaging in an exercise routine.  Everything mentioned creates a physical demand on the body’s muscles and if care is not taken it can cause inflammation and cramping.  Proper stretching and nutrients can avoid complications and injury. 

Nutrients such as systemic enzymes, electrolytes and magnesium can help remove the inflammation and avoid cramping within the muscles.
Other nutrients such as glutamine, Co Q10, and proteins can help repair any damage that might occur to the muscles.

Magnesium is an important mineral that is in various biochemical pathways in our bodies.  In the muscles, it helps to maintain fiber relaxation to prevent cramping.

In cases of muscle tightness or lack of flexibility, high doses of magnesium (usually in the glycinate or malic acid bound form) should be administered.  If there is a situation with a “Charlie horse”, magnesium creams can be applied topical in the local area, for quicker relief.

Electrolytes are balanced mineral salts such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium and chloride.  Excessive loss of these electrolytes can cause muscle cramps, nausea, exhaustion and even dizziness or delirium.

Patients are most commonly treated for inflammation due to injury, arthritis and over-strain.  Common herbal anti-inflammatory remedies include, Bromelain, Boswelia and MSM. However, the proteolytic enzyme Wobenzym N may be the most effective remedy in treating inflammation, improving drainage, and enhancing nutrient flow to the site of injury.

Traumeel comes in a liquid or tablet form for internal use and cream or gel for topical use.  Alternatively, Dr. Reckeweg’s R30 – Universal Ointment or Bionica gel provide quick reduction of inflammation and acceleration of the healing process.

Others agents that help to quickly increase oxygen supply into the body’s various tissues thus promoting muscle repair are: Co-enzyme Q10 and a homeopathic preparation by Dr. Reckeweg called Bio 91.  Co-enzyme Q10 (Co Q10) is one of the best energy sources for the body’s muscles, as it is used in the body’s production of ATP.  It is needed in high amounts by the heart’s muscles and it allows for the continual pumping of these muscles.  Co Q10 can also be used for increasing arterial dilations, which will allow for greater nutrient and oxygen deliver to the tissues.  Bio 91 is a homeopathic preparation by Dr. Reckeweg products that helps to increase cellular respiration by increasing enzyme activity in the body.  Bio 91 contains various cofactors and vitamins, such as RNA and DNA, iodine, and vitamins B12, B15, and B17, to aid cellular respiration pathways.  It is used to combat fatigue, weakness and increase tissue oxygenation and reduces muscle stiffness and discomfort.

With proper warm up and stretching, combined with proper nutrient intake, you can enjoy your physical activates without damaging your muscles.  For serious athletes, consult your naturopathic physician for a customized protocol for you specific needs.

This article was provided by Baljinder S. Chhoker, a Naturopathic Consultant with Natures Source, for more information please call 905-257-1655.