Last September I tore my right rectus femoris. Healing has been slow, but its coming along. My problem right now is that my quad feels swollen after a run or long walk. It doesn't so much hurt as it just feels big. I haven't had muscle injuries before, only joint, so I'm not sure if an anti-inflamitory is appropriate.

Any thoughts or advice on this type of injury and healing process are greatly welcomed and appreciated.

Johanna

Johanna -- so sorry about the delay on this post. My fault.... first postings are required to be moderated before being 'visible' in our forum (preventive measure against spammers) and this post never got 'approved.' Hopefully the docs will see it. Again, apologies for the delay!

Johanna,
Sorry about the delay. What part of the quad was torn? Was it close to the kneecap, or more in the center of the muscle belly? How long into the run before it starts to feel swollen? How much rest does it need before it returns to normal? Is the whole quad swollen or just near the tear site (scar tissue)? I would start with ice (15 min with a towel barrier) and stretching (45 second hold) before using ibuprofen.

-Dr. Jake

Thanks for getting back to me. I tore my right fermois rectus. About a hand's length down from my hip. On my last few runs it hasn't felt swollen, which is good, but I still have a lot a residual issues because of the tear. Some muscle pain and tightness around the knee and compensation issues on the left side. I've been getting massage and acupunture, which seems to help, but its so slow to heal. So far, the best medicine has been yoga and running.

I am glad that the swelling has reduced somewhat. I would encourage you to continue to ice and stretch. Yoga is a great way to stretch and work on core breathing. Using NSAIDs to control swelling and pain is fine, just do not take them prior to working out. If you really want to speed up healing you should have ultrasound stim combo used on your quad to break up adhesions and scar tissue at the tear site. The ultrasound also helps to push oxygen and nutrients into the tissue allowing quicker recovery and healing ability. Another piece of the puzzle is to strengthen the glutes and train them to engage at the start of any movement will take the load of the quads, preventing re-injury. If you have any questions you should call the clinic or stop by the tent on Sat.

Cheers,
Dr Jake

I'll do that! Thanks so much.