Expert: Dr. Paul Newhart - 5/19/2008

Question
I injured my hamstring last Thursday running sprints at track practice. I felt a sharp pain and pulled up short. I iced it for the first 3 days and have used ice and heat since. I did stretches and strengthening exercises hoping to be okay by this week, but realize that is not possible. Is there anything a Chiropractor can do to help speed up the healing process to be back in the next few weeks, or what type of doctor would be best to go to?

Answer
We actually just had a patient in our office present with this same condition.  He saw his family doctor and an orthopedist.  Diagnosis was a partial tear, as evidenced by the bruising present. We used electrical stimulation, ultrasound, low level laser, and myofascial release, as well as strengthening exercises to help restore his condition.  Time of treatment was 2-3 weeks.  He also used Arnica gel on the bruised and injured areas for healing.