Acute Injury Response

How do you respond to acute injury? What is your first go-to when something happens to cause pain? 

I recently lifted something a little too heavy for me, and “tweaked” something in my back. My whole left hip area was in pain with the slightest movement. Fortunately, I keep a stash of herbs, homeopathic remedies, and essential oils in my purse. My first response was to take Arnica Montana. This homeopathic remedy is specific for bruising, swelling, and
inflammation from injury or overexertion. I put 2 pellets under my tongue and put another 2 pellets in my water bottle. When I arrived home, I continued taking the Arnica pellets and rubbed Arnica gel and Complete Tissue & Bone oil on the area. I also applied an ice pack to help with inflammation. I took 6 capsules of Complete Tissue and Bone Formula and made myself a cup of comfrey tea to drink as I alternated cold and hot packs on the area. Hot and cold therapy helps increase the blood
flow to the area and promotes healing. I went to bed early, rubbing in more ointments, and settling myself with a heating pad and ice pack to continue the therapy. 

The next morning I was very stiff and sore, so I started the day
with a warm epson salt bath and a cup of comfrey tea. I added peppermint oil to the bath to increase circulation and ended with a cold shower – making sure to really focus on the sore area. I was able to move easier after the bath.  I focused on taking 6 capsules of Complete Tissue & Bone every hour throughout the day and drank more comfrey tea. I also took time to stretch and roll out the muscles in the area, using caution to not overdo. I
continued the same therapy the next day and noticed a marked improvement. I continued to take my herbs, made time to stretch, and felt better each day. Within a week the pain subsided to a minimum. There was still healing to do, but the issue was almost healed. 

Remember, when the body presents us with pain it is simply telling us that something is off and needs assistance. When we listen to what our body is saying and give it the nutrients it needs to heal, the pain subsides. We can use the pain signals our body is giving us to adjust our therapy as we heal. For acute injuries I like to continue therapy for 1-2 weeks after all pain subsides. This supports the body in a deep way as it completes its healing
process.

As acute issues come up in our lives, reach for natural therapies first. They work! When we listen to what the body is telling us and respond appropriately, we can heal completely.