A Soft tissue injury (STI) is the damage of muscles, ligaments and tendons throughout the body. Common soft tissue injuries usually occur from a sprain, strain, a one off blow resulting in a contusion or overuse of a particular part of the body. Soft tissue injuries can result in pain, swelling, bruising and loss of function.

If severe pain persists after the first 24hours it is recommended that an individual consults with a professional who can make a diagnosis and implement a treatment plan so the patient can return to everyday activities.

These injuries are very common in sport but also occur in road traffic accidents and in the accidents of everyday life, including at work.

• Sprain is when ligaments are overstretched or torn.
• Strain occurs when muscle or tendon is overstretched and partially torn.
• Rupture is overstretching and a complete tear of muscle or tendon.
• Deep bruising or haematoma with a large amount of blood in a muscle.

It is best to have the injury seen to as soon as possible, as the longer the injury is left untreated, the longer it will take to heal, and this can result in long term problems in the injured area.  For example, an untreated neck injury can result in chronic neck pain and stiffness as well as headaches.

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