During the inflammatory phase, a physical therapist’s goal is to limit inflammation and stop excess inflammation. It is impossible to stop inflammation as it is a necessary step in the healing process but Excess inflammation is important to control since it impairs the blood flow and can potentially cause cell damage to the healthy tissue around the injury.

 Patients can take control of inflammation by adding essential fatty acid, omega-3 to their diet. Omega-3 is known as an essential fatty acid because our bodies cannot make it. Dietary fats protect against inflammation because they signal the movement of blood flow and promote the function of immunity cells.