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Medications and Support Aids for Pulled QuadricepsPain medications (analgesics) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used if required to help manage your quadriceps pain. However, these medications will not cure your condition; they will merely treat some of your symptoms.  These drugs aren't recommended for everyone or for long term use, as pain medications can cause liver damage, and NSAIDs can cause gastrointestinal difficulties (such as upset stomach, diarrhea, ulcers and intestinal bleeding). They can also trigger other serious side effects, and even inhibit the body's natural ability to heal itself. COX-2 Inhibitors (prescription NSAIDs like Celebrex, Bextra or Vioxx, block the COX-2 enzyme involved with prostaglandin production responsible for inflammation) have been linked with risks of heart attack, stroke and in some cases death. The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) asked manufacturers to withdraw some COX-2 Inhibitors (Vioxx and Bextra) from the market as well as put a big black warning label on the packaging outlining the risks involved with use (Celebrex). Cortisone/steroid injections may initially help reduce inflammation and swelling of your pulled quadriceps. However they are very controversial, as they can trigger a quadriceps tear (this is influenced by the severity of injury and frequency of injections). Botox injections have also recently been used to relieve pain and tension. Ask your doctor if any of these are options for your condition.  Some health professionals have also recommended natural supplements such as Glucosamine, MSM, Chondritin, Capsaicin, Devil's Claw, Arnica or Yucca Leaf to help relieve pain and/or strengthen your tissues. Hyaluronic Acid (Hyalgan) injections have also had some success. Alternating Blood Flow Stimulation Therapy™ and Cold Compression Therapy treatments can be used once your initial pain and swelling has decreased to provide relief and improve function. Blood Flow Stimulation Therapy™ involves using an Inferno Wrap® to help reduce your aches and pains, muscle spasms, joint and muscle stiffness that may accompany your hamstring injury, and will help increase blood flow to your injury. Cold Therapy involves using a cold compress to help decrease any inflammation, swelling, muscle spasms, as well as tendon and ligament strains and sprains, by constricting blood flow and restricting fluid build up. Cold also has a numbing effect on your nerves to decrease feelings of pain. The best way to get cold compression therapy is by using a Freezie Wrap® on the injured area. These are very effective, convenient, mess-free and long lasting.  Corrective footwear, orthotics, or inserts provide arch support and help to align your muscles and bones so they work together, which will in turn take pressure off your quads. These will also help keep your foot in a more comfortable position and provide relief from overpronation. They can be custom made with the help of a chiropodist, podiatrist, or a chiropractor. Or, if you prefer you can purchase general heel cups, pads or inserts to help cushion and elevate your heel.
| Dear MendMeShop, I began using the Freezie Wrap (8C) and the Dorsal Night Splint (7Cp) immediately when the package arrived. I followed the instructions. The only medicine I took was 2 or 3 200 mg ibuprophen per day. (I seldom take pain killers.) The plantar faciitis was in my left foot. When the treatment began, I could not walk without great pain and even when I sat still the pain continued. Within a few days the great pain was gone, and within a month I felt pain only after a lot of walking or ballroom dancing. Before receiving your devices, I began using plantar faciitis inserts in my shoes, but that alone did not cure the problem. Now, I use the devices only when I feel slight pain after a couple of hours of walking or dancing. You provide a quality product that is easy to use and works as described on your web site. You may quote my comments. Rating: Dr. Bob Cockrell          |
