Back Sprain
& Strain
There are three kinds of connective tissues relating to muscles and joints. There are – muscles, tendons and ligaments. These tissues often get involved in injury. Because of the differences in their structures, their injuries are different and they heal differently.
Muscles : Muscles are the tissues that move the joint. Muscles tissues are stretchable. They have plenty of blood flow and because of this they can heal in 2-6 weeks. Muscles do not attach directly to the bones. They get attached to the bone through tendons.
Tendons : These are the tough tissues which surround each muscle and ultimately attach to the bone. Muscle fibres pull on the tendon envelop surrounding the muscle, which then pulls on the bones across the joint. Blood flow in tendons is not as high as in muscle tissues. They, therefore take 1-3 months to heal.
Ligaments : These are the hard, barely flexible covering around joints. They attach bone to bone and prevent the bones from moving excessively or separating at the joints. Ligaments have scarce blood supply and take 2-9 months to heal.
