Muscle knots in the forearm are painful points in the muscles where the fibers of the contracted muscles are not capable of relaxing to the original state. This condition is also called myofacial trigger points. The points feel like small nodules as small as a pinhead or become big as a marble. Usually muscle knots develop after continuous contractions of the muscle due to movements used in hobbies, jobs and stress.
Constantly strained or overused muscles are more susceptible to this condition and can also happen in any muscles. Muscle knots are common in the forearm, back, neck, thigh and the shoulder. It causes severe pain and the affected area is incapable of functioning normally.
Knots in the forearm are caused by straining of the joints of the elbow or wrist, injury to the muscles of the forearm especially playing sports such as badminton, tennis, and weight lifters. Pain is severe especially when stretching or performing repetitive movements of the forearm.
Treatment for muscle knots
- Prescribed anti-inflammatory medicines to lessen the pain and the inflammation. Muscle relaxants to lessen the spasms of the muscle.
- Massage the affected area and apply compression on the knots and adjoining muscles for proper flow of blood in the area and relaxes the tissues. Waste from the knots is absorbed in the blood and relieves muscle spasms. Another alternative is gently rolling a tennis ball over the knots and apply light pressure for at least 30 seconds. Deep stroke massage is also good in eliminating knots in the forearm.
- Use temperature therapy by applying hot or cold compress to relax the affected area. Apply a cold compress in the early stage of the condition to lessen the pain and the formation of knots. Wrap ice cubes in a clean towel and rub it around the painful areas. Heat gradually relax muscle spasms and lessen the pain. Wrap in a towel a heating pad before placing to the area to prevent further irritations. Another alternative is pouring warm water over the area. Alternately applying heat and ice is also good for the condition.
- Take a warm bath to lessen the pain and relax the knotted muscles.
- Fill a tub with warm water; add a cup of Epsom salt. Mix them well until salt is totally dissolved and soak the knotted forearm muscles in the solution to lessen the pain.
- Regular exercises to stretch the muscles and maintain flexibility of the muscles and also lessen tension. Aerobic exercises such as swimming to lessen pain in the muscles.
- Perform rehabilitation exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles with the help of the physical therapist. Changes in lifestyle to prevent muscle knots from recurring.
Tips
- Drink plenty of water at least 8 glasses every day. Avoid alcohol or coffee to prevent dehydration.
- Avoid sudden or awkward movements. Use proper posture and bending the knees when lifting things. Avoid bending the back.
- Avoid slouching or hunching when working on a computer.
- Always stretch before performing exercises.
FACT CHECK
https://www.healthline.com/health/muscle-knots