Mrs Nkechi Anthony, Chief Nurse, with a private hospital, Abuja, has warned against delayed treatment of strains and muscle pulls.
Anthony said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Abuja, that such delay could cause a defect in a person’s posture.
She said the lack of first aid treatment on muscle pull and strain could lead to complications that would have adverse effect on the body.
According to her, delay in treatment can cause muscle to contract and stretch resulting to a tear of part or the whole of the muscle fibre.
She said the development could rupture the blood vessels and cause internal bleeding in the affected part of the body.
Anthony advised people to use some home remedies as it could help reduce pains, swellings and prevent complications before proper medical attention.
“Patients should sit calmly and gently massage affected area with their hands to relax the muscles.
“Crape bandages could be used to tie around the affected region of the body; this will further help relieve the pain,’’ she said.
She added that immediate application of ice block on strained muscle would help slow down blood flow to the injured area which would help to prevent swells and ease pain.
“Ice block can be applied for 15-20 minutes, but if left for more time it could freeze the nerve and may worsen the condition.
“Muscle pulls are contraction that produce an abnormal posture on the leg and becomes very hard and painful,’’ Anthony said.
Anthony said muscle pulls and strains were usually common during sporting activities, roads and domestic accidents of various forms.
She said muscle pulls are more common among footballers and pregnant women.
Speaking on symptoms associated with strained muscle, she said red patched skin, stiffness, swellings and severe pains on the muscles were the common signs.
Besides, Anthony advised people on the need to engage in physical activities, adding that old people and footballers should engage in regular medical checkups. (NAN)