An individual can end up with a strained chest muscle while performing weightlifting exercises including bench press. The pectoralis major is the biggest muscle in the front part of the chest. The pain that develops from a strained chest muscle can occur in a gradual manner or abruptly at the anterior aspect of the arm or shoulder. The treatment and rehabilitation program for a strained chest muscle usually depends on the severity of the injury sustained by the individual.
Cold and heat therapy
It is vital to avoid physical activity that entails movement of the chest muscles. When applying an ice pack, it should be done at 20 minutes every session at 3-8 times throughout the day if the strained chest muscle is very sore. The cold therapy must be performed during the initial 2 days after the injury.
Heat therapy can be utilized using a retainer apparatus on the strained chest muscle after the initial soreness subsides. The strap-on heat packs or pouches can provide adequate heat on the damaged muscle.
Sports massage
The treatment for a strained chest muscle can include sports massage performed by a massage therapist. Take note that sports massage can help improve the efficiency of the chest muscles and even help manage strains from overuse.
Take note that this form of massage therapy can also prevent future injuries. Sports massage can also help restore mobility to the chest muscles. It also helps improve the permeability of the muscle tissues to allow the flow of nutrients and fluid into the tissues and allow rapid recovery of the strained chest muscles. In addition, the therapist might also utilize techniques that promote the breakdown of scar tissue in the damaged chest muscles.
Medications
The doctor might prescribe anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen. These medications are also called as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that work by reducing the production of prostaglandins in the body.
The prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that can irritate the nerve endings and trigger pain. This medication works by relieving the pain and minimize the swelling that occurs when the individual has a strained chest muscle.
Ultrasound therapy
It is important to note that ultrasound therapy might be an effective treatment for soft tissue injuries such as a strained chest muscle by reducing the healing period of injuries.
This type of injury can increase the flow of blood to the strained muscles in the chest by triggering the flow of mast cells to the area. Ultrasound therapy can also increase the production of collagen that contributes to tissue recovery. Take note that this therapy can improve the condition of the scar tissue that might form after injury by improving the extensibility of the current collagen in the muscles and ligaments.
Management
A strained chest muscle might indicate a ruptured pectoralis major tendon. A sports injury specialist might perform surgery for full ruptures and prescribe a full-rehabilitation program after surgery.
The surgery aims to reattach the muscle in the chest to the bone. The treatment program after surgery involves complete rest for 2-3 weeks and then followed by gradual strengthening exercises as well as light weightlifting 6 weeks after surgery. The individual can regain normal physical mobility and strength after surgery.