Myths about Muscle Injury and Fact Check

Myths cannot be separated from everyday life. This happens because there is a story that is told repeatedly and serves to explain why something happened. Stories can be accepted by logic but often occur beyond reason. Regarding muscle injuries, it is also not immune from the myths circulating in society.

So.. These myths about muscle injuries need to be understood, so that misunderstandings are avoided and sufferers can manage muscle injuries properly. Some myths about injuries circulating in society and the facts that can be seen in them:

Myth 1: Only sportsmen are at risk of muscle injuries.

Fact: Muscle injuries can happen to anyone, both professional athletes and ordinary people who don't participate in regular sports. Everyday physical activities such as lifting heavy objects, falling, or doing something wrong can cause muscle injury in anyone.

Myth 2: Muscle injuries always happen suddenly.

Fact: Some muscle injuries can happen suddenly, such as a sudden stretch during exercise. However, there are also muscle injuries that develop slowly due to overuse or poor posture.

Myth 3: If a muscle injury isn't painful, it's not serious.

Fact: Not always a muscle injury will cause severe pain. Some injuries may have mild symptoms at first, but can develop into more serious problems if left untreated.

Myth 4: Muscle injuries require surgery.

Fact: Most muscle injuries can be treated with treatments such as: massage therapy, rest and recovery exercises.

Myth 5: Stretching before exercise can prevent muscle injuries.

Fact: Stretching before exercise has become controversial. Several studies have shown that static stretching before exercise can increase the risk of injury, while dynamic stretching or warm-up can help protect muscles. However, the best way to prevent injury is to do a proper warm-up, including dynamic stretches, light physical exercises, and gradually increasing the intensity of the exercise.

Myth 6: Stretching after exercise can reduce muscle stiffness.

Fact: Stretching after exercise can help reduce muscle stiffness and increase flexibility. However, stretching alone may not be enough. It's important to stretch consistently and combine it with proper recovery such as ice packs or massage.

Myth 7: Using a warming cream or certain oils can prevent muscle injuries.

Fact: Certain warming creams or oils may provide a temporary warm sensation to the skin, but there is no scientific evidence to suggest that they prevent muscle injury. Prevention of muscle injuries is primarily based on proper warm-up, good recovery and practicing with correct technique.

Myth 8: Muscle injuries only need complete rest to heal.

Fact: Rest is an important part of muscle recovery, but complete rest may not always be necessary. Sometimes, exercise or light physical activity can help speed recovery by stimulating blood circulation to the injured area.

Remember that any muscle injury should be treated seriously, and if you have a muscle injury, it is best to consult a medical professional or physiotherapist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.