Sprains and Strains: What's the Difference?


What is a Sprain?

A sprain is a stretch and/or tear of a ligament (fibrous band of connective tissue that joins bone to bone). Every joint in the body is stabilized and supported by a ligament. They help control range of motion and enable us to complete simple tasks such as walk and run.

What is a Strain?

Hamstring strain or sprain, which is affected

A strain is an injury of a muscle and/or tendon. Tendons are fibrous cords of tissue that attach muscles to bone.

Overview

Sprains and strains are among the most common injuries in sports, professional, amateur athletes and the general public. You are more at risk for the injury if you have a history of sprains and strains, are overweight, and are in poor physical condition.

Sprains and strains are categorized according to severity:

  • MILD - A muscle is stretched in a mild sprain, but there is no joint loosening.
  • MODERATE - A moderate sprain partially tears the muscle, producing joint instability, and some swelling.
  • SEVERE - A severe sprain produces excruciating pain at the moment of injury, as muscle tear completely, or separate from the bone. The complete rutupre makes the joint nonfunctional.

You should seek medical attention if you can't walk more than four steps without pain, can't move the affected joint or have numbness in any part of the injured area.


STRAINS: What Are The Signs Of A Strain?

Signs of strain include pain, muscle spasm, muscle weakness, swelling, inflammation, limited ability to move the affected muscle, and cramping. With a mild strain, the muscle/tendon is stretched or pulled, slightly. Some muscle function will be lost with a moderate strain, where the muscle/tendon is overstretched and slightly torn. In severe strains, the muscle and/or tendon is partially or completely ruptured, often disabling the person.

Common strains include:

  • Achilles tendon strain Pain will be felt along the back of your foot and above your heel, especially when stretching your ankle or standing on your toes. Most strains are mild. The seriousness of the strain will affect your walking. Suddenly increase your activity or warm up improperly can cause an Achilles tendon strain. Trying to go fast, jumping (hurdles), cutting (football) or twisting in the air are just some of the scenarios where you could develop Achilles tendon strain.

  • Back sprain can severely cramp activity
  • Back strain When the muscles that support the spine are twisted, pulled, or torn, the result is a back strain. Athletes who engage in a lot jumping (during basketball, volleyball, etc.) are at risk to this injury. Everyday activities can lead to back strain, pickup a heavy item and twisting at the same time as in loading groceries into the car, carrying laundry up stair and turning too quickly.

  • Hamstring muscle strain A hamstring muscle strain is a tear or stretch of a major muscle in the back of the thigh and can sideline a person for up to six months. The likely cause is muscle strength imbalance between the hamstrings and the muscles in the front of the thigh, the quadriceps. Sports involving activities such as kicking a football, running, or leaping to make a basket can pull a hamstring. Unfortunately, hamstring injuries have one of the highest rates of reinjury, so it is important to heal fully and ensure you correct any symptomatic causes such as lack of proper stretching or muscle imbalance. You can view much more in-depth information about the hamstring at aidyourhamstring.com.

  • Quadricep strain This is muscle strain found in the front thigh (quadriceps muscles are in the front, and the adductor muscles are on the inside). The hamstring and quadriceps muscle groups are particularly at risk for muscle strains because they cross both the hip and knee joints. Quadriceps are also used for high-speed activities, such as track and field events (running, hurdles, long jump), football, basketball, and soccer. Read more about a thigh muscle injuries.

  • Calf strain This occurs when you have stretches, tears, or an incomplete rupture of one of the large calf muscles (gastrocnemius) in your lower leg. Also called 'Tennis leg', calf strain happens when lunging or pushing off one leg. This often occurs in sports but can also happen in daily activities, such as running to catch a bus or climbing stairs. The feeling is described much like being kicked in the leg from behind but when turning around to see who kicked you, you discover that no one is there.

  • Elbow strain A strain occurs when a muscle and/or tendon becomes overstretched and tears. This painful injury, also called a "pulled muscle," can be caused by an accident, improper use of a muscle, or overuse of a muscle. Elbow strains frequently occur in racquet, throwing, and contact sports.

  • Shoulder strain. The deltoid muscles in your shoulders are commonly sprained as they deal with a lot of force and leverage. Your shoulders are considered one the most movable joints in your body; overuse, repetitive motion or an unnatural twisting of the shoulder are common causes of shoulder strain. Shoulder strains arise quite often the due to swelling, which can make almost any movement in the cavity of the shoulder joint both difficult and uncomfortable. Read more about deltoid muscle injuries

  • Hand strain Repetitive strain injuries are linked with work related usage of the hands. A tight grip or squeezing of the hand overstretches the hand muscles. Women are at high risk of hand strain, as 'standard' hand tools are often too large, too wide or too slippery. Sports such as gymnastics, tennis, rowing, golf-sports that require extensive gripping-have a high rate of this particular type of strain.

  • Neck strain Neck strain is typically not considered an extremely serious injury, but there is pain and dysfunction of the neck. Causes of neck strain are too much time in an awkward position (hunched over a steering wheel while driving, hunched forward to view a computer monitor, or cradling a phone in the crook of the neck). Neck strain can arise for those that sleep in a position that strains the neck, such as with a pillow that is too high or too firm. Further to this, neck strain also shows up due to people carrying a heavy suitcase or other object on one side of the body.

SPRAIN: What Are The Signs Of A Sprain?

While the intensity varies, pain, bruising, swelling, limited ability to move the affected joint, and inflammation are common to all three categories of sprains: mild, moderate, and severe. You may feel a tearing or hear a 'pop' sound in the joint.

Causes of Sprains

A sprain is caused by direct or indirect trauma (a fall, a blow to the body, etc.) that knocks a joint out of position, and overstretches, and, in severe cases, ruptures the supporting ligaments. This injury occurs when an a person lands on an outstretched arm; slides into a base; jumps up and lands on the side of the foot; or runs on an uneven surface.

Common sprains include:

family running together ankle pain
  • Ankle sprain Occurs when the foot twists, rolls or turns beyond its normal motions. You can also sprain your ankle if the foot is planted unevenly on a surface, and often occurs during hiking or cross country running. Approximately 25,000 people each day suffer the pain of an ankle sprain. (source American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeon)
    The foot and ankle are made up primarily of ligaments holding the bones together - although these ligaments are tough and strong, they are not infallible. There are 7 ankle related sprains; high ankle, lateral, inversion, eversion, syndesmosis, anterior talofibular ligament, and anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament sprains. Certain sports are correlated to a high risk of ankle sprains, and are sports that require sudden changes in direction, like football, soccer, and basketball and basketball.

  • Knee sprain There are 4 major ligaments in the knee:
    • Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) bridge the inside of the knee joint, forming an "X" pattern that stabilizes the knee against front-to-back and back-to-front forces. A sudden stop; a twist, pivot or change in direction at the joint; extreme overstraightening (hyperextension); or a direct impact to the outside of the knee or lower leg. Knee sprain injuries are seen among athletes in football, basketball, soccer, rugby, wrestling, gymnastics and skiing.
    • Medial collateral ligament (MCL) supports the knee along the inner side of the leg. Like the ACL, the MCL can be torn by a direct sideways blow to the outside of the knee or lower leg, the kind of blow that can happen in football, soccer, hockey and rugby. The MCL can be injured by a severe knee twist during skiing or wrestling, particularly when a fall twists the lower leg outwards, away from the upper leg.
    • Lateral collateral ligament (LCL) supports the outer side of the knee. It is the least likely knee ligament to be sprained because most LCL injuries are caused by a blow to the inside of the knee, and that area usually is shielded by the opposite leg.

    More than any other group, competitive athletes have a very high risk of knee sprains and other types of knee problems.

  • Wrist sprain A fall onto an outstretched hand, the force impact bends the wrist back toward your forearm, stretching and ligaments that connect the wrist and hand bones a little to far. A momentary loss happens during everyday activities, but frequently occurs during sports and outdoor recreation. Wrist sprains are common with basketball, baseball, gymnasts, divers, skiers (especially when they fall while still holding a pole), skaters, skateboarders, and inline skaters
  • Finger sprain Injury to three joints of the fingers 'jamming' the finger into an opponent or being hit on the tip of the finger by a ball. Bending the finger backward (hyperextended). Are often overlooked as 'just a finger', finger injuries can be very painful and lead to chronic ailments (trigger finger) if not treated correctly.
  • Toe sprain Stubbing your toe into something, stopping suddenly when running or landing awkwardly from a jump 'jamming' your toe into your shoe. Sports such as football, soccer, rugby, basketball and running.


Here is Why Muscle Strains & Tears Persist Much Longer Than Needed For Many

Recovery from a muscle strain or muscle tear can take a long time, especially when some of the less effective, traditional methods are utilized. This is simply because many treatments either focus on masking of pain or are too inconsistent to provide sustainable improvement.

1: Visits to Physio (PT) Help - We Always Recommend It - But It Can Be Costly And Inconvenient

2: People Tend To Focus Too Much On Cold Treatments

3: Injections Can Cause Harm If You Are Not Careful

4: People Continue to Aggravate & Re-Injure Their Muscle(s)

Muscle Injuries Certainly Are Life Changing, Are They Not?

If you've been living with the agony of a significant muscle spasm or strain for some time now, it's almost a sure thing that you're feeling discouraged, tired, and worn-out. Seemingly simple chores are now impossible - like getting in and out of seats (or your car), using a hammer/scredriver, walking the dog or just standing and walking for significant periods of time. The constant pain has no doubt interrupted your sleep, just adding to the long-term misery that this condition can bring on.

It is challenging to keep from re-straining muscles and tendons once they have been injured significantly.

It's just not possible to stop life's activities for weeks/months to rest. What ends up happening is we continually re-injure the muscle through our daily activities - further setting back our recovery. Each time the muscle is placed under significant stress, the chance of tissue breakdown and growth of scar tissue becomes more likely.

A Muscle Injury Can Lead to Other Conditions and Injuries.

a muscle injury can lead to overcompensation pain in other areas of your body

Every time we use our injured muscle, damaged and swollen tendons and muscle tissue move; when they are inflamed, every movement hurts. With injured tissue, pain happens - sometimes a LOT of pain, so we try not to move it. So, when doing something we need to use our muscles for (climbing stairs, getting up from the sofa, typing on a keyboard, playing tennis, swimming), we start to use other muscles more (instead of the muscles that are causing pain). Our body will automatically try to use other muscles to reduce pain even though it is inconvenient. This concept of using other muscles/joints to complete a task is known as overcompensation.

A couple days later - after purposefully avoiding movement of our damaged muscle(s), the pain and swelling have gone down and this is where the trouble begins! The pain disappeared with the swelling but we still aren't fully healed! Not knowing this, we start using our hamstring normally again and then the injury swells up again like it did before - all because the injury wasn't fully healed in the first place. So the pain comes back and now we start overcompensating yet again.

Eventually, we start overcompensating more and more in an attempt to lessen the pain. The problem is now that many of the muscles and joints you are relying on due to overcompensation are now being overused. This means that aches and pain now become commonplace in areas that you weren't expecting - all as a result of the original muscle injury and the body's instinctive nature to "protect" the orginal injury A typical example might be someone that has twisted their right knee and after a couple weeks, their left knee, hip and ankle are radiating a lot of pain due to all the body weight being placed on the left side due to right knee pain.

Everything in the human body is connected. Any muscle injury can lead to other injuries over time if not treated properly. You might start using your opposite arm or leg to perform normal daily activities, like carrying grocery bags or moving things around your house. You may also try to use the opposite side of your body to get back to work sooner to avoid waiting for your muscle injury to heal completely.

Many of our clients have experienced pain in other areas of their body because they shift the "work" to the opposite side of their body. For example, a serious muscle strain in the right forearm can often lead to over-straining of the left forearm (a roofer would switch from holding a nailgun in the dominant, injured arm to the other weaker arm and likely strain that forearm quite easily). Most commonly, the injury occurs on the dominant side, so the risk of straining the other (weaker) side increases. The longer the injury (and corresponding pain) persists, the greater the chance that you will sustain more strain from overcompensation, eventually leading to issues in those areas as well. To minimize potential secondary injuries, know that it is important to deal with your muscle injury quickly and completely.

overcompensation-injury-prevention-and-rehabilitation

Muscle imbalances result, placing tension on bone and softer tissues - leading to a misalignment within the body. The extra stress on the opposite side of the body will also result in weakness and fatigue of soft tissue - increasing the chances they can eventually be injured or gradually degenerate. This is a textbook example of how you get an overcompensation injury. In some cases, physical therapists warn that overcompensation can be very dangerous - in the lower body, back or hips it can affect gait or alignment on a permanent basis.

Even if you try to avoid over compensation pain in your healthy muscles you're still at risk for re-injuring your strained / pulled muscle. Ignoring over compensation pain and the pain felt in your muscle while returning to regular activities or your job can lead to even more problems with healing - like a chronic muscle injury or the formation of massive amounts of scar tissue in and around your muscles and tendons. Muscle strains can become a vicious cycle - which is why it is absolutely critical to focus on methods that improve and strengthen the injured muscles in a timely manner. The faster you truly heal, the less chance you have of sinking into a downward spiral of re-injury, scar tissue growth and overcompensation injuries.


Okay, So I Have a Muscle Injury...What Should I Do Now?

Stage 1: If the muscle injury is very recent - use a good quality cold pack and Arnica Pain Relief Cream. If the injury has been going on for awhile, then skip to Stage 2 below.

If you are experiencing pain and swelling in the very early stages of the injury (first 48 to 72 hours), the first step in a conservative treatment protocol would be to focus on reducing the discomfort by applying a Cold Compress or Ice Pack to the injured muscle along with a high quality pain relief cream such as our Arnica Infusion Cream.

Not only will you use your Cold Compress or Ice Pack for the first 48 to 72 hours after the injury, but you should also use it during other stages of the healing process. Some examples include...

  • after any activity that stresses your injured muscles in a moderate way. It is wise to quickly apply cold to not only reduce the pain, but to also minimize tissue damage that may have occurred during the prior event.
  • If you have a job that requires you to place some demands on your injured muscle. If that is the case, use cold immediately following work and if the opportunity allows - use it for 15 to 20 minutes during lunch or another break time.
  • If you are in a post-operative situation where cold compression would be utilized heavily for at least the first few weeks following the procedure. Similarly, if you are scheduled for upcoming surgery, then you will need some type of cold temperature treatment to use.

Having a Cold Compress or Ice Pack available at home to use if and when the need arises is helpful. Many of you already do so. However, too many people over-focus on cold while ignoring the most critical aspect to healing - nourishing the injured tissues with a healthy supply of blood flow needed to repair and rebuild the injured tissues.

This leads to the most important recommendation...

Stage 2: Focus on Increasing Blood Flow To The Injured Muscle - As Blood Flow Is How Your Body Heals Muscle Tissue

Even though the concept is simple, improving blood flow to injured soft tissue can be difficult. When the injury is preventing movement, the challenges are even greater. Traditional methods require your muscle to move to promote blood flow (exercise), but that same motion that promotes blood flow can at times lead to making your pain and condition worse.

  • Have you re-injured your muscle by returning to work too quickly?
  • How many times in the past have you aggravated your muscle just trying to perform basic tasks around the home?
  • Is your debilitating injury preventing you from work or activities you love to do?

Most people we deal with tell us these scenarios have happened to them many times in the past. Perhaps it has already happened to you.

Promoting blood flow within a muscle or soft tissue injury to help the body heal itself is a concept that has been utilized for centuries. This is where the focus has to be if you are seeking long-term improvement. Oxygen and nutrients, carried within the blood, are critical for the body to heal itself. Without proper blood flow, recovering from an injury or condition will be delayed...sometimes for a very long period of time.

The real challenge is how do you promote blood flow to your muscle without causing further injury?

A deep heat application performs a critical function in the human body, as the bodys' response to heat is to increase blood flow in an attempt to cool down the area - it is one of your bodys' critical mechanism for temperature control. The objective of the TShellz® Circulatory Boost Wrap is to increase blood flow in these targeted areas, resulting in relaxation of the vessel walls. The vessels then gently expand, allowing for more nutrient rich blood flow along with extra oxygen to reach the damaged tissues. As a secondary benefit, the enhanced blood flow helps in flushing waste and fluid build-up from the injury site - further enhancing the ability of the body to heal.

soft tissue repair tshellz

More blood now begins to flow effectively to soft tissue in the body; damaged tissue uses the added blood flow to heal as it is through the blood that the body carries the oxygen and nutrients needed for proper and long-term healing.

Now, on to recommendation number two in the journey to heal your muscle injury...

tshellz energy heat hamstring muscles

The TShellz Wrap® - Healthy Muscle For The Long Term

The best option we came across in our research to accomplish effective blood flow to soft tissue at home is the TShellz Wrap®. Use of this device results in an increase of blood flow to the treatment area - all in a non-invasive manner.

Have you seen what happens when you add water to a flower wilted from drought? In essence, your injured muscle is much like a "wilted" flower; your body wants to heal its injury, but needs lots of nutrients to do it. Blood brings life to your tissue by delivering healing nutrients and oxygen that are vital for their growth and survival. In addition, the blood carries away toxins and waste cleaning the area and healing it faster. Without a good supply of blood, your injured muscle simply won't heal properly.

Using a TShellz Wrap® will not expose you to the risk of causing further harm to soft tissue like you can when using rigorous exercise. The TShellz Wrap® accomplishes the goal of enhanced blood flow without the need for intensive exercise and as such reduces your risk of re-injury.

The TShellz Wrap®: Intended to Enhance Blood Flow in the Treatment Area

The intent of the TShellz Wrap® is to ease pain by blood vessel dilation, decrease stiffness by elongation of soft tissue, improve blood circulation, and boost metabolism and enzyme activity. In stimulating localized blood flow to damaged soft tissue, you provide needed oxygen and nutrients to grow strong healthy collagen. In addition, you will experience a clearing of toxins and excess fluid build up from the injury site. Over the intermediate term, this helps to reduce incidents of swelling as trapped fluids will be whisked away - reducing pressure on blood vessels.

Using the TShellz Wrap® is truly a unique experience. Within moments of applying a treatment, you can feel the healing sensation due to the increase in blood flow within the area. During a treatment, and for quite some time after you finish, the treated area will feel relaxed and less painful. It's a very soothing sensation and extremely effective.

Who Should Use the TShellz Wrap®

We recommend the use of a TShellz Wrap®:

  • If you have injured tendons, ligaments or muscle, then the TShellz Wrap® will provide the all-important function of boosting blood circulation where it is needed most.
  • If you are dealing with soft tissue conditions affecting your range of motion.
  • If you have a chronic soft tissue condition that has lasted for years- this device is intended to kick start the recovery process and help strengthen surrounding and supporting tissues.
  • If you are still working with a soft tissue injury, the TShellz Wrap® will help relax injured soft tissue prior to work and after a day at the job.
  • If you are still trying to enjoy your favorite activities such as gardening, tennis, golf, etc - use the TShellz Wrap® prior to activity to help reduce chances of re-injuring or re-aggravating those targeted tissues.
  • If you are suffering from bursitis and want to treat a major source of it (inflammation and damage to tissue surrounding the bursa sac). Through trauma, overuse or degenerative changes, muscle and tendons surrounding the bursa sacs will tighten and constrict. When they do, they place pressure on the bursa, causing it to become irritated. Applying a TShellz Wrap® to the area will help relax tissue in the treatment area, taking pressure off the bursa.
  • If you have been to a clinic for some form of massage or stretching and your PT or physician has recommended stretching and/or conservative treatments for home.
  • If you have upcoming surgery scheduled for your soft tissue injury, then you will find a blood circulation booster to be a powerful tool after surgery to help surgically repaired tissues recover for long-term health. (once the surgery wound has healed and your physician has given the ok - minimum 6 weeks after surgery)
  • If you are experiencing atrophy in your joint and want to reduce the risk of re-injury (or further injury) while stretching - we recommend its use every time before you stretch.

Some of the more common muscle related injuries:

  • On-Going Muscle Pain.
  • Sprained or Strained Muscle Injuries.
  • Muscle Spasms and Cramps.
  • Forearm Muscle Pain, Pulled Forearm Muscles, Forearm Muscle Strain, Rupture, Tears and even Elbow Tendonitis.
  • Trapezius Muscle Strain, Upper Back / Shoulder Muscle Pain, Pulled Trapezius Muscle.
  • Pulled Hamstring Muscle, Back of the Thigh Pain / Strain, Hamstring Tendonitis.
  • Calf Muscle Strain, Tennis Leg Synrome, Gastrocnemius Muscle Pain, Pulled Calf Muscle, Calf Muscle Tear.
  • Shin Splints, General Calf Muscle Pain, Posteromedial Shin Splints, Anterolateral Shin Splints.
  • Quadriceps Muscle Strain, Thigh Muscle Pain, Pulled Quadriceps Muscle.
  • Female or Male Groin Pulls, Groin / Inner Thigh Muscle Pain / Strain, Hip Muscle Pain.
  • Shoulder Muscle Pain, Deltoid Muscle Strain, Pulled Rotator Cuff Muscles.
  • Strained Bicep Muscle, Tricep Muscle Strain.
  • Muscle Pain from Fibromyalgia or due to repetitive movement.
  • General Muscle Pain.
  • Chronic Muscle Pain and Inflammation.

Increased Blood Circulation = Increased Healing Capability

TShellz Wraps® contain a unique Carbon Fiber Energy Pad which is flexible and will shape to conform to your body. This Energy Pad emits a uniform wave of perfectly safe energy over its entire surface. This energy is absorbed by soft tissue in the treatment area, opening blood vessels, resulting in an increase in blood flow. Increased blood circulation is what your body needs to accelerate the healing of soft tissue and this is why we recommend the TShellz Wrap®.

The TShellz Wrap® is an FDA Registered Medical Device and is suitable for use in therapeutic clinics and FROM HOME. It is completely safe for people and patients to use for themselves.

The technology found in a TShellz Wrap® has been used for decades in the worlds of professional and amateur sports - a contributing factor as to why athletes seem to recover from injuries so quickly.

Have you ever wondered by an athlete can return to activity after 3 or 4 weeks following a soft tissue injury - while your average person takes much longer to return back to normal? The secret isn't really that much of a secret - it involves consistent treatments (meaning multiple times a day) using a treatment like the TShellz Wrap® to stimulate blood flow to the injured tissues. Most athletes have the luxury of using in-house facilities many times per day.

How many us can afford the time and money to visit a clinic multiple times a day? Very few indeed. This is how you can gain some of the advantages that athletes enjoy in their injury recovery - by using a device like the TShellz Wrap® two or three times a day on a consistent basis.

tshellz coverage front shoulder
achilles ankle T•Shellz Wrap

Consistent Treatments = Consistent And Long Term Improvement


What Else Makes the TShellz Wrap® So Special?

We believe the TShellz Wrap® to be one of the most effective home treatments to increase localized blood flow in and around the treatment area.

We can promise that you will receive a product that is designed to be safe and does what it is supposed to do... reduce pain (as stated in "Therapeutic Heat and Cold", 4th edition. - Ed. Justus F. Lehmann, M.D., Williams, and Wilkin) temporarily increase length & flexibility of soft tissue (as stated in "Therapeutic Heat and Cold", 4th edition. - Ed. Justus F. Lehmann, M.D., Williams, and Wilkin) and aid your body in recovering from tendon, muscle and other soft tissue injuries via enhanced blood flow.

The unit plugs into a standard wall outlet to get its power. The nice thing about the power supply is that the same unit can be used in North America and overseas as well. It has the capability to operate between 110v and 230v.

The TShellz Wrap® has a special signal controller that can be set for 3 different power levels of application (3=High, 2=Medium, 1=Low). The cord is long enough that you can sit or lie comfortably and watch TV, read or surf the net while you're using it.

Treatments are max 30 minutes in duration and the device can be worn over clothing. This allows you to use the device at work, at home, or really anywhere you have access to an electrical outlet.

common areas for knee bursitis

When Should I Use My TShellz Wrap During the Day?

The most common question we receive from individuals prior to purchasing is - how many times a day should I be using my TShellz Wraps® and when should I be using them? While treatment plans will differ for each individual and their specific injury, there are general guidelines that should be adhered to.

  • Use a Cold Compress or Ice Pack when you are experiencing inflammation (usually after exertion or movement of the injury area).

The TShellz Wrap® would then be used:

  • Right after rising from bed in the morning (as this is when it is most stiff)
  • Prior to going to bed at night (to relax the injured/tightened muscles, allowing for better sleep)
  • Before you know you will be using your injured muscles (going to work, driving, playing sports, etc).

Stage 3 - In Between Treatments With A TShellz Wrap®, Apply Our New Fast Acting Pain Relief Cream Called ARNICA INFUSION

mendmeshop arnica pain relief cream

Dealing with aches and pains affecting the foot, ankle, leg, knee, hamstring, hip, back, arm, shoulder, elbow, wrist, or hand? If so, then applying the Arnica Infusion to any of these targeted areas will bring about fast relief from the pain and sore tissues. Simply apply a small amount of cream to the body and moments later, you will experience a soothing and comforting sensation over the area.

Arnica Infusion is specially designed to relieve pain due to sore muscles and joints associated with arthritis, backaches, sprains, strains, and bruises. No matter if you are dealing with an acute injury, chronic pain, or a general "flare-up" - you will experience fast relief from pain and inflammation.

A lot of our customers asked us for pain cream, so we focused our resources and came up with what we believe to be the most effective, fast acting, topical pain relief cream you can buy without a prescription.

You are likely familiar with some of the standard topical creams on the market as most of our customers use them. They are mass marketed and even found in most department stores... Well, we are here to say that Arnica Infusion goes many steps beyond what they offer.

Made in the USA at an FDA registered manufacturing facility, you can be assured that Arnica Infusion is both safe and effective. We only source top grade ingredients while implementing strict quality control checks during every step of the production process. Expect the same high quality that MendMeShop customers have been accustomed to since we started the company in 2005.

The "Cool Blue" formula is the perfect balance between the smooth application of a cream and the effective absorbing factor of a gel. It is not too thick and not too thin - just the right texture. Best of all, it feels very nice on the skin!

Each application of Arnica Infusion feels so comforting and soothing, we are certain it will become an item you will not want to live without.


Arnica Infusion Ingredients

The Arnica Infusion formula is based on a combination of scientific research and the use of high quality ingredients. The properties within the formula were chosen for their pain relief, anti-inflammatory, and soothing qualities.

The acting ingredients within the formula include ones many of us are familiar with; along with ones that have not received a lot of publicity (only in research circles). Extensive testing resulted in a blending of ingredients that provides the most synergistic of benefits.

The notable ingredients in the Arnica Infusion formula include:

  • Arnica - powerful anti-inflammatory, speeds recovery, enhances circulation
  • Menthol - provides deep penetrating pain relief with a nice cooling sensation
  • Vitamin B6 - promotes normal nerve function
  • MSM - supports healthy connective tissues, anti-inflammatory
  • Ilex Leaf Extract - increases circulation, skin conditioner
  • Vitamin E - anti-inflammatory, enhances circulation, hydrates the skin
  • Aloe - anti-inflammatory properties, soothes the skin
  • Tea Tree - enhances penetration of ingredients

Extensive quality control procedures during the manufacturing process ensure the ingredients and final product are both safe and effective. We would not stake our reputation on anything but the best.

A Note On OverCompensation

Since you are reading this, you probably know that serious muscle injuries do not just disappear. Over time, they usually wreak havoc on you due to lack of movement and over-compensation. It will also wreak havoc on other joints and muscles due to overcompensation. Recovery takes a longer time for such chronic (long term) injuries, but proper healing is essential to regain strength and get you back to the activities you enjoy.

The longer your injury endures, the greater the risk of running into serious overcompensation injuries.

To Stop Re-Injury & Reduce the Risk of a More Serious Overcompensation Injury, You Need to Heal Quickly & Completely!

Anyone in need of rapid recovery and complete healing must consider a comprehensive treatment plan that includes an effective means to minimize swelling and inflammation yet also stimulate healing and tissue elasticity. We have found no better set of tools that can be used at home than this:

Conservative Treatment Tools Our Clients Have Used to Help Limit Damage & Boost The Body's Soft Tissue Repair Process at Home:

  • A Cold Compress or Ice Pack to reduce inflammation of the soft tissue injury (as soon as possible).
  • A TShellz Wrap® to increase blood-flow to the injured muscle.
  • MendMeShop Arnica Pain Cream for temporary relief of pain due to sore muscles and joints.
  • An Exercise & Stretching Plan to prevent muscle atrophy and shortened tendons. A proper plan will increase elasticity and strengthen the muscles and tendons of the affected area.

Conservative treatment tools just like these have been used successfully by thousands of muscle injury sufferers - just like you.

TShellz Shop

TShellz Wrap® = Greatly Increased Blood Flow
Increased Blood Flow Stimulates the Bodys' Ability to Heal

We believe the use of TShellz Wraps® for boosting blood flow to in the area of application is one of the most under-utilized home treatment options available on the market today. We have client after client that have tried many options out there and have been amazed at how effective and fast the TShellz Wrap treatment can relieve pain and increase blood flow in the treatment area.

The intent of TShellz Wraps are to significantly increase bloodflow to tissue in the treatment area - period. With regular use of the TShellz Wrap:

  • Your pain will be reduced.
  • With increased blood flow, soft tissue in the area will most likely recover at an accelerated rate*.
  • Due to increased warmth, soft tissue in the treatment area will have an enhanced range of motion and increased extensibility*. This should translate into a reduced rate of injury occurrance as soft tissue becomes more flexible.
    (*Chapter 9 of "Therapeutic Heat and Cold", 4th edition. Ed. Justus F. Lehmann, M.D., Williams, and Wilkin)

Attach the TShellz Wrap®, plug it in and let the Energy Pad do the work!

*Know that every personal soft tissue injury is unique and the TShellz Wrap may not work for everyone. This is why we offer a 60-day money back return on all our TShellz Wrap devices. Our high quality wraps are registered with the FDA as medical devices which meet high manufacturing standards.


Post-Operative Recovery

leg T•Shellz Wrap

Doctors and Surgeons are always improving the techniques used in surgery, and results from surgery now are much more positive than they were in the past. However, all surgeries introduce scar tissue, and recovery from surgery can be disappointing and take longer than anticipated.

If you do wind up getting surgery, know that rehabilitation at-home while attending regular PT or doctor appointments is vital for your overall recovery.

Consistent exercise and conservative treatment on a daily basis during your rehabilitation while working with your doctor or physical therapist is key. This is why you should seriously consider talking with your doctor or surgeon about maximizing your recovery by using the TShellz Wrap® at home once you are approved for PT.

The more consistent you work at enhancing blood flow to surgically repaired soft tissue, the more consistent the healing process will be. Nourishing the tissues will more oxygen and nutrients (which are carried through the blood stream) will give the body a better ability to produce new, healthy collagen. In effect, you will help the body produce stronger soft tissue while potentially reducing the number of setbacks that can occur following surgical procedures.


TShellz Wrap® and Atrophy

knee TShellz Wrap<sup>®</sup>

Shortened muscles and tendons due to lack of use is a real problem during recovery. When you start to feel better and use the joint, the shortened muscles and tendons get over-strained, introducing small micro tears. These micro-tears start the formation of scar tissue, which unlike muscle or tendon, is completely inflexible. Once there is scar tissue in there, the tears will continue; eventually you've got a serious problem with a joint that does not flex as much as it did before and this becomes a chronic condition. You'll know you have scar tissue when you get shooting pain if you stretch your joint too far... it is something that physical therapist's often deal with (ie. shoulder manipulation).

To prevent this, use the TShellz Wrap before undertaking any significant activity, as heat from this treatment will actually increase the flexibility of muscles, tendons and ligaments. This is why we advise plantar fasciitis sufferers to treat themselves with a Plantar TShellz Wrap first thing in the morning before walking (walking stresses the plantar ligament on the bottom of the foot). After treatment, the plantar ligament is more flexible and can handle higher walking stresses before it starts to micro-tear. The ability for soft tissue to stretch further before micro-tearing will allow you to gently stretch your recovering joint without re-injuring it yet again. This is a huge boon for recovery. We also advise you speak with your physician about using the TShellz Wrap® for post surgery recovery, as surgery will always introduce scar tissue and TShellz Wrap treatments in post-op recovery is intended to increase soft tissue flexibility and as such help reduce scar tissue growth.


Key Points To Keep in Mind When Treating Your Muscle Injury

Make Sure That Complete Healing is Your #1 Goal

We all know that if the injury was healed, the pain would go away but what about the opposite situation? If the pain is gone, does that mean the injury is better? Unfortunately, this is not always true.

Too many people only focus on suppressing pain symptoms while providing less attention to the true healing aspects of the body. Experiencing less pain, while obviously a good short-term goal, never equates to underlying healing. Scar tissue can remain for months after one gets to a point of being relatively pain-free. However, as long the weak and brittle scar tissue remains, you are susceptible to re-injury. Certain motions or movements can cause the weaker tissue to easily tear - resulting in some reversal of the recovery up until that point.

This is why we recommend for people to continue with their doctor or therapist recommended exercises and to continue with mild treatments of the TShellz Wrap® for a period of time - to better ensure complete recovery.

Ongoing treatments to enhance circulation are intended to soothe, relax and promote healing of damaged soft tissue in the application area. T•Shellz treatment also results in the ability of soft tissue to extend further due to the effect of heat on soft tissue. The more extensible your tissues are, the less likely they are to strain or sprain.

Soft tissue injuries are a race against time. The faster and stronger you heal your muscle, the less chance there is for re-injury or other problems later on.

Leg Thigh Injury HEAT Treatment

Resting Will Help, But Only Temporarily

The truth is, significant or repetitive muscle strains (often combined with tendonitis) are often a culmination of numerous factors, such as repetitive stress, poor posture, acute injuries, and overcompensation issues resulting from other muscle and soft tissue ailments. It may take weeks or months for these pain triggers to surface. When they , however, merely resting will solve the underlying issues. You need to utilize actions and options that actually treat the source of the pain and help reverse the damage that has been done.

Resting has a role to play, but it is only one small factor in a recovery plan.

If Your Muscle Injury Keeps Popping Up -> Identify The Cause & Fix It

In order to get long term relief from - let's say for example - "hip pain".... you need to identify all the factors that are contributing to it. These factors can include muscle imbalances, short leg syndrome, herniated discs, trauma and tightness to surrounding muscle and soft tissue, etc. The list is certainly significant and it can be frustrating for people who may have no idea where to begin. This is one of many reasons why you should always get to a physician and, in some cases, a specialist to identify the source of your problem.

Know that Pain isn't the Only Proof You're Still Injured

Would you know you injured yourself if there was no pain? Probably not! Pain and swelling perform a useful role in letting you know that you did, in fact, injure yourself. Pain and swelling are what get you to seek out medical attention in the hopes of finding a way to reduce the pain and heal your injury.

Inflamed muscle tissue can cause extreme pain and result in a chronic muscle injury. When using a Cold Compress or Ice Pack, you can control inflammation which speeds up healing and clears away the pain. You don't need medication (drugging your whole body) to mask the pain. You need to reduce the inflammation in your muscle and avoid re-injury to see a reduction in pain.

We all know that if the injury was healed, the pain would go away but what about the opposite situation? If the pain is gone, does that mean the injury is better? Unfortunately, this is not always true.

On-going TShellz Wrap® treatments at home, every day, are intended soothe, relax and promote blood flow to soft tissue. Consistent TShellz® Circulatory Boost Wrap treatments before activity or work will help warm up the area, increasing soft tissue elasticity & flexibility; this in turn will also reduce the risk of re-injury.

Regular treatments with a TShellz Wrap® can reduce pain and stiffness from scar tissue and increase overall flexibility. Increased blood flow will whisk away damaged tissue, toxins and any bacteria in your muscle to promote more effective healing. Getting rid of toxins will trigger healing of your damaged tissue. Increasing blood flow will also increase the amount of oxygen that is being sent to your injured tissue AND boost your tissue's ability to absorb that oxygen (something that's important for healing). (reference: 1)


We Receive Calls All the Time From Customers Who Simply Want To Thank Us For Introducing Them To Our Amazing Products!

Let me tell you, we appreciate all the feedback we have received over the years. We have had many medical professionals, athletes and everyday people call and write to tell us about their positive experiences with our devices and the company in general. It never gets old hearing about the successes and it provides us with the motivation to continue doing what we do best - provide individuals with options to heal from the comfort of their own home.

Below is a small sample of some of the Customer Service comments we have received from customers...

The Best Service by Far!

The service from the Mend Me Shop is by far the best you could ever hope for. I have spoken to Paul on numerous occasions and his knowledge is very much appreciated.

Do not hesitate to order from this company. Their products are made well and work. Their customer service is the best you could ever hope for.

Charlie, North Carolina, USA

I have called the office and received helpful guidance. Really appreciate the help and so glad I found your products!

D. McBride, USA

I really appreciate y'all emailing and responding. I'm in business myself so I know the importance of customer service. Your company has done a superb job and it's really appreciated. I know it takes a lot of time but it's very well worth the time you spend.

C. Vickers, USA

Thank you, too, for the personal attention to your customers. A rarity, in today's world!

L. Anderson, USA

You guys are tremendous. I was overwhelmed by your speed and thoroughness regarding my problem.

T. Kienlen, USA

Thanks again for your wonderful products and support.

J. Sese, USA

The fact that you guys are there for us every step of the way matters as well. Your company is wonderful and that's a rarity these days.

M. Callahan, USA

The cost seemed minimal compared to what I had already spent at the doctor and physical therapist.

P. King, USA

Thank You so much. Superior service as well as unprecedented guarantee.

D. Hunzicker, USA

If you're tired of being told that resting, drugs and surgery are the only answers to your soft tissue injury.... Be optimistic, because there are effective alternatives for you.


The Reasons For Our High Success Rate - Our Customers!

patella knee T•Shellz Wrap x-ray view

We never claim our products will work for everyone. That is simply impossible to achieve. Everyone has a different capacity for healing and different circumstances behind their injuries and/or conditions.

In addition, some people may have a hard time sticking with recommended protocol in order to achieve benefits from our devices. Quite simply, our clients that have had successful outcomes have made a small effort to invest 60 minutes a day into the program. If you do the same, chances are you will be very happy with the outcome.

Right after you place an order, email us and we will have a plan developed immediately so you will be able to get started upon arrival of your parcel. We can't promise you miraculous results, however, we do promise to do everything we can to help you with your condition.

Right after you place an order, email us and we will have a plan developed immediately so you will be able to get started upon arrival of your parcel. We can't promise you miraculous results, however, we do promise to do everything we can to help you with your condition.

Everything you have read up to now has hopefully given you some hope.

However, words are meaningless unless a company stands strongly behind the products they sell. This is what sets us apart from others...we offer people a comprehensive, 60 day, full 100% money back guarantee. We take on all of the risk because we know our products work well for the overwhelming majority of people who purchase them.

We Will Support You Every Step of the Way

You are never alone when making a purchase from us. When we say we stand behind our products, we truly mean it!

If any question or concern arises, simply send us an email at any time (we check our emails constantly all throughout the day and night - even on holidays!). We will respond as soon as possible.

Simply call toll free 1-866-237-9608 to place an order with one of our knowledgeable Product Advisers. They have the ability to answer all your questions...ensuring you only receive the products you need.

Product Advisors are available 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Eastern Standard Time Monday to Friday.

North America Toll Free 1-866-237-9608

Outside North America +1-705-532-1671

We Stand Behind All Our Promises With An Iron-Clad Guarantee

  • Guarantee #1

    Use your products diligently for up to 60 days and you will experience a significant reduction in pain. If not, I encourage you to send back the items for a no-hassle 100% refund.

  • Guarantee #2

    You will not be left in the dark after purchasing any product from us. AidMyMuscle Advisors and Product Specialists are available 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Eastern Standard Time Monday to Friday.

  • Guarantee #3

    Your order is guaranteed to be shipped within 24 hours on every business day.

  • Guarantee #4

    All purchases receive a one year, full replacement warranty with guaranteed, prompt service.

  • Guarantee #5

    You could save hundreds of dollars and possibly more, by getting back to work sooner.


We Can Get You Started For Less Than The Cost Of A Few Physical Therapy Treatments

Think about it – you can now have the ability to treat your pain from the comfort of your own home while saving money in the process.

Best of all, you are fully protected when making a purchase from us as we offer a no-hassle 60 day, full money back guarantee.


The Next Step Is Up To You!

Living with pain is never easy as it affects your entire lifestyle. Nothing is more important than making the proper decision when it comes to treating your muscle injury. Most methods only mask the problems or provide temporary relief; they do not treat the pain at its source.

AidMyMuscle stands out in this regard as our goal is to help you heal for the longer-term.

The bottom line is, you are welcome to try our products for a full 2 months. If you do not receive the benefits that others have experienced after using the product as directed, simply call us to initiate a return and we will issue a prompt & full refund. There will be no hassle and no hard feelings.

The fastest option you have to get our product into your hands as soon as possible is by placing your order online - at this very moment..

Place your order on-line through our ultra-secure website by clicking the image below.

order our pain products securely on-line

Or, Call Our Office. We are open Monday to Friday to allow you place an order over the phone. Simply call toll free 1-866-237-9608 to place an order with one of our knowledgeable Product Advisors. They have the ability to answer all your questions...ensuring you only receive the products you need.

North America Toll Free 1-866-237-9608
Outside North America +1-705-532-1671

guaranteed customer satisfaction

If you choose to order through our online shop, know that we keep no credit card data on file. Once the transaction is completed, the credit information disappears from our internal systems.

As you can see, ordering from us is a very easy and safe process, no matter if choosing to order on-line or over the phone.

TShellz Wrap Elbow for tennis elbow, epicondylitis, elbow strains and elbow sprain
MendMeShop Arnica Pain Relief Cream
TShellz Wrap Shoulder - an advanced treatment for shoulder injury and rotator cuff injury
TShellz Wrap Knee for meniscus injury acl injury mcl injury or hyperextended knee
Advanced relief from intermetatarsal bursitis, sesamoiditis, metatarsalpholangeal bursitis
Blood Circulation Boost TShellz Back wrap for the ultimate in sore back healing
soft tissue therapy for torn or damaged achilles tendon
Advanced relief from sprained wrist and carpal tunnel syndrome injuries
An effective treatment alternative to plantar fasciitis surgery
Pain Relief Power Pack


Are you still unsure about placing an order? let me address some questions that may causing some hesitation...

What is the success rate of the TShellz Wraps®? Do they really work?

We try and keep in touch with a large percentage of our customers, and we encourage them to do the same. In doing so, we have received a lot of feedback as we have been in the business since 2008.

We can say that the return rate on our products is only around 5 to 10% any given month. That is exceptional by anyone's standards. Therefore, we can safely indicate that the overwhelming majority of people who purchase from us do achieve benefits with our products.

T•Shellz Wrist Wrap MendMeShop
T•Shellz Back Wrap MendMeShop

How much time do I need to dedicate for treatments? Are the products easy to use?

T•Shellz Leg Wrap MendMeShop

The TShellz Wraps® are very easy devices to use. After one or two uses, you will engage in the treatments with ease. Very detailed instructions are included and you are always welcome to contact us by phone or email if the need for help arises.

In regards to the TShellz Wrap®, it is ideal to use the device two or three times a day on average. Each treatment session is a maximum of 20 minutes in duration and the device will turn off automatically at that time. Typically, people use the TShellz Wrap® before bed, upon awakening (or not long after) and one other time during the day when the opportunity presents itself. For people in an office setting, many will use the device at work (as it can be worn over clothing). For others, they will use the device an our or two after work.

A Cold Compress or Ice Pack is primarily used following activity that stresses the injured tissues (following work, after a sports activity, or just suffering a general re-injury). This is done to reduce inflammation and to minimize tissue damage. Treatments are 15 to 20 minutes in duration.

How long has MendMeShop been in business

We established our firm in December of 2005. Our track record in this field continues to grow and we plan on being around for many decades to come.

What is your return policy? Is it the standard 30 days?

We go above and beyond what other companies offer - we offer a full 60 day money back guarantee with no restocking fees.

order our pain products securely on-line

AidMyMuscle advisors do not work on commission, so be assured you will only receive fair and objective information.

Our online shop accepts Visa & Mastercard as well as a Paypal Payment option.
We also encourage your to Call Our Office at 1-866-237-9608 (toll free continental NA) where we can answer any questions you have and/or take your order via phone.

CLICK HERE TO BROWSE OUR SHOP AND CHECK PRICES

Living with pain is never easy and we encourage you to call us with any questions you have related to your hamstring injury. We will do our best to help.

Available Monday to Friday

FREE SHIPPING ON ALL PRODUCTS CURRENTLY ENABLED

Product specialists are available 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Eastern Standard Time Monday to Friday.

If any question or concern arises, call us or simply send us an email at any time (we check our emails constantly all throughout the day and night.. even on holidays!). We will respond as soon as possible.

North America Toll Free 1-866-237-9608
Outside North America +1-705-532-1671

Please be aware that this information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. All testimonials and comments reflect the real life experiences of individuals that used our products, however, individual results may vary. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider before using any of our outstanding products to make sure they are right for you and your condition or if you have any questions regarding a medical condition.

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The terms Inferno Wrap®, Freezie Wrap®, T-Shellz® and Mendmeshop.com® are registered trademarks of In.Genu Design Group Inc.
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