Help for strained muscle – for 19yr old

[mamabear]

18 mos ago, my son underwent shoulder surgery to repair a torn labrum on his left side. During surgery the Dr. found that the ligament on the back side of his shoulder was too long, so he folded it over and stitched it. The second procedure required him to be in a shoulder brace for nearly 3 mos. When the brace was first put on him, I noticed that one of the straps was missing near his bicep. I voiced my concern and got a “oh it will be fine”. After the initial pain from the surgery had diminished, my son started complaining that his bicep hurt. Every time he went in for a visit, the concern was presented. Each time we were told it was atrophy and that with time it would go away.

It has not gone away. He went to 3 months of physical therapy as prescribed. All other pain has left him except his bicep which he had no problem before the surgery. He has slowly been working his muscles with weights. At times he complains that there is a squeaky noise along with soreness when working the left bicep.

Is there anything that any of you would try if you were me since I am not getting the answers I need from the Dr.s?

Thanks,

mamabear

[IdahoHerbalist]

This was originally posted in the Teasel thread.

This does not sound like a teasel case to me. It sounds like the muscle needs something to help it heal. Comfrey comes to mine. I am trying to think of something that might help the pain but it is late and I have too much new medicinal plant info in my head from our seminar today.

[mariareese]

A muscle strain is also called a damaged muscle, when a muscle is stretched too far, and small tears occur within the muscle. That was very bad experience I felt.

[Dr. Patrick JonesHomestead Instructor]

I would try a topical tincture or lotion made of St. John’s wort and chamomile.

Willow or meadowsweet tincture topically is also good as an anti-inflammatory/analgesic.

An Arnica liniment might be good as well.

If the pain is caused by spasming of the muscle, cramp bark would be good.

Lots of good info on pain here:

Doc

Don't use herbs or combine herbs with medications or use them during lactation or pregnancy without talking with your healthcare provider.

[mariareese]

Useful information .. thanks ..

[IdahoHerbalist]

Doc Jones wrote: If the pain is caused by spasming of the muscle, cramp bark would be good.

Lobelia as well. Just took some this morning for a cranky muscle in my back. :thumb:

[Dr. Patrick JonesHomestead Instructor]

IdahoHerbalist wrote:

If the pain is caused by spasming of the muscle, cramp bark would be good.

Lobelia as well. Just took some this morning for a cranky muscle in my back. :thumb:

Yup. Lobelia too.

Doc

Don't use herbs or combine herbs with medications or use them during lactation or pregnancy without talking with your healthcare provider.

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