QuestionI suffered a TFL area tear last May during half marathon running. I am now
many months into the process of recovery, and it is slow going. I have been
attempting to explore massage as a treatment. The first therapist I saw was
too aggressive and left multiple bruises. The second did absolutely nothing of
any intensity. I am willing to keep looking in order to find the right
person...BUT...is this even going to help me? The muscle is severely damaged
and there is still pain going on 7 months. I have done physio and injections.
No success with physio and only moderate success with injections. I have
seen a great doctor who has recommended strengthening exercises that I am
quite good about doing. I also have taken up Pilates with a skilled coach in
order to strengthen my back and core. I am doing VERY light running/walking
in order not to lose my mind with no activity. I suppose the big question for
me is will massage even be worth the time and money (out of pocket in my
case) for someone like me? I have heard the argument that the scar tissue
needs to be broken down, and then I have heard others say that scar tissue
really can't be broken down and that attacking a wrecked muscle is the wrong
approach. What on earth do I do? I have run since I was 15 ( now 39) and it is
my sanity. I would like to run again.
AnswerHi Jennifer,
A TFL tear is pretty painful. Ok so scar tissue can be broken down to an extent. With the TFL most of it is tendon. the tendon runs from the bottom of the glute to just under the knee. A lot of the time when it tightens up the tendon is a major part of the problem. Massage is great for breaking down the tendon and the muscle so it will loosen up, but unfortunately as it is with most injuries it will be a constant thing that you have to keep an eye on. So yes massage can help, but you don't have to do it every week like some people are probably telling you. Good luck!
Zira
