The Chronic Stage
During the chronic stage of injury healing, scar tissue is remodeled by the stresses placed on it. This means that the activities and exercises the injured part is taken through will affect where scar tissue strength will be located. That is why visits to the physical therapist, the massage therapist, and adherence to a home exercise program are crucial for healing. These modalities will help to develop the scar tissue to where it can be useful in protecting the injured area.
During the chronic stage, pain associated with the injury tends to be limited to the end reaches of the joint range of motion.
The chronic stage of healing begins after 21 days, and may continue for quite some time. This is the time when the patient takes the most active role in his/her recovery.
Bibliography
1. Kisner and Colby Therapeutic Exercise, Foundations and Techniques, 1st ed.
2. Bryand, Michael, MD. Wound Healing Clinical Symposia, Vol. 29 No. 3 1977, CIBA Pharaceutical Company.
Injury Healing Chronic Stage
By Anne Asher, About.com
Updated July 27, 2009
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board
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