Muscle knots are painful points in the muscles where the contracted fibers of the muscle cannot relax to its original state. These points are similar to small-sized nodules when touched with the fingertips and can be small as a pinhead or as big as a marble.
Knots can develop in any muscle but those that are always strained and overused are prone to develop knots. Muscle knots are usually common in the forearm, back, neck, shoulders and the thigh. Muscle knots in the forearm are not only tender but also prevent the normal functioning of the muscle.
Knots in muscles occur caused by strain in the joint of the elbow or the joint of the wrist. It can also happen due to injury to muscles of the forearm as well as those who play badminton and tennis. In addition, weightlifters always face a higher risk for developing muscle knots.
The pain caused by muscle knots in the forearm is severe and adjacent muscles can also be affected. The pain is described as a generalized ache and becomes worse when stretching the forearm or engaging in activities that involve repetitive movements.
Features
- Pain which perseveres and becomes worse.
- Severe pain can be felt in the affected muscle.
- There is difficulty in sleeping due to the pain
- A tender knot in the forearm muscle.
Causes o
- An acute trauma to the forearm muscle or constant stress on the muscle can cause development of trigger points as well as poor posture.
- People affected by stress and anxiety are more prone to develop muscle knots. People who lead a stressful life are constantly clenching their muscles which are a form of repetitive strain that makes the muscle helpless to trigger points.
- Sensitive areas tend to form in the muscles after overuse or an injury. These sensitive areas are trigger points and cause strain, tension and pain in the muscle.
Treatment of muscle knots in the forearm
- Apply an ice pack in the early stage in order to help minimize the intensity of pain and reduce the formation of knots. Take a few ice cubes and place in a clean cloth and rub the area around the trigger point.
- Perform gentle exercises such as free flowing movement of yoga since it helps reduce the pain.
- A few sessions with a physical therapist is beneficial especially when the affected person experiences severe discomfort and stress.
- Perform relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, tai chi, journal writing, dancing as well as gardening, listening to music and talking to a friend.
- Eat a healthy diet that includes whole grains, variety of fruits and vegetables and get plenty rest and sleep.
- Drink ginger tea every day. Take note that ginger is a good remedy for muscle tension and muscle knots. All you have to do is boil an inch of grated ginger in a glass of water and mix it with honey. The individual should take this combination every morning.
FACT CHECK
https://www.wikihow.com/Remove-Muscle-Knots
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321224.php
https://www.painscience.com/articles/spot-05-forearm-extensors.php