When is it safe to use a muscle again?

[highballer906]

I just injured myself at work last night while pulling a patient up in bed at a nursing home. I don't think its anything terribly severe even though it does not feel so good. I have a burning sensation around it. It is in the upper back, more towards the upper shoulder blade. I reviewed it and made an incident review but I have not sought treatment for it. I'm just taking a couple of Aleve and leaving an ice pack on it for about 15 min. I don't want to do the whole workman's comp if I can help it, as it would only cause problems at work and I feel like this can be treated at home anyway without the need of a doctor getting involved..

About a year ago while working in a different nursing home I pulled a muscle more severely in my lower back, and did the whole workman's comp thing, and was forced to drop out of massage school. I am determined that this won't happen this time. I am going to complete the class no matter what.

How long does something like this typically last though? I'm off for a couple of days from work, but the next day of class is Tuesday. Do you think it will be safe at that time to massage others and to be massaged? I
I know no one can diagnose or prescribe on here LOL, I was just wondering what your personal experience was with this type of thing.

I'm really starting to get upset. I now know I have GOT to get out of that type of work. I lucked out 2 times already as it was repairable. I'm afraid next time it won't be. Money reasons tells me to hang in there a little while longer until school is finished though....

Thanks guys

 

[steveh4316]

I am sorry you hurt yourself! My hunch is that being massaged would be wonderful for your injured muscle, and that doing massage shouldn't be a problem. Lifting would not be so good for it, though. Work is going to be a lot more of a problem than school!

I did that job for 3 years (eons ago!) and it's a great job, but much too hard on the body!

 

[JaPac]

Try to get hold of some Arnica Montana, a homeopathic remedy. It can do wonders for a fresh muscle injury. Topical arnica gel is okay, but the little pills you take by mouth would be much better, especially since you are having an emotional response to the injury.
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