Treatment FAQ

what is the best imidiate treatment for a pulled muscle

by Bradly Ritchie Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago

  1. When to Seek Medical Care Immediately. See a doctor or go to a hospital emergency room if: ...
  2. Ease Muscle Spasms. Apply dry or moist heat to the area.
  3. Treat Pain. Give pain medication, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin).
  4. Avoid Unnecessary Neck Strain. ...
  5. Follow Up.
Aug 25, 2020

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1. Ice...

2. Elastic Bandage...

3. Warm Compress...

4. Epsom Salt...

5. Apple Cider Vinegar...

6. Black Strap Molasses...

7. Clove Oil...

8. Garlic...

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1.Get Enough Sleep...

2.Apple Cider Vinegar...

3.Get A Massage...

4.Take A Hot Shower...

5.Take Lots Of Water...

6.Do Light Exercises...

7.Use Ice On The Affected Area...

8.Take A Pain Reliever...

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How do you treat a pulled muscle on the side?

Ice Ice application helps reduce swelling, bleeding, and pain. Ice application should begin as soon as possible after sustaining a muscle pull. Ice applications can be done frequently, but should not be done for more than 15 minutes at a time.

What is the best way to treat muscle strain?

For immediate self-care of a muscle strain, try the R.I.C.E. approach — rest, ice, compression, elevation: 1 Rest. Avoid activities that cause pain, swelling or discomfort... 2 Ice. Even if you're seeking medical help, ice the area immediately... 3 Compression. To help stop swelling, compress the area with an elastic bandage until...

What is the best painkiller for a pulled muscle?

Take a painkiller. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as aspirin or ibuprofen reduce pain and help you move around more easily with a pulled muscle. Be sure to take no more than the recommended dosage, and never give aspirin to children. Part 2

How can I relieve pain from a pulled quad?

Gentle stretching can help relieve pain from a pulled quad. A pulled muscle is no fun. Unfortunately, it's very common, and most athletes or fitness enthusiasts will experience one at some point. This amazing kale pesto is only 210 calories and anti-oxidant rich!

How long does it take for a pulled muscle to go away?

Recovery time depends on the severity of the injury. For a mild strain, you may be able to return to normal activities within three to six weeks with basic home care. For more severe strains, recovery can take several months. In severe cases, surgical repair and physical therapy may be necessary.

What is the best painkiller for a pulled muscle?

“Naproxen [Aleve] and ibuprofen are better for inflammation and muscle strains. A bonus of Naproxen is you can take it twice a day versus every 4 to 6 hours like with acetaminophen. This can be more convenient for many people.”

What relieves pulled muscle?

Rest the strained muscle and apply ice for the first few days after the injury. Anti-inflammatory medicines or acetaminophen (Tylenol) also help reduce pain and swelling. As the pain decreases, you can use heat on the muscle. Stretching and light exercises to bring blood to the injured area can also be useful.

What is the fastest way to get rid of a pulled muscle?

approach — rest, ice, compression, elevation:Rest. Avoid activities that cause pain, swelling or discomfort. ... Ice. Even if you're seeking medical help, ice the area immediately. ... Compression. To help stop swelling, compress the area with an elastic bandage until the swelling stops. ... Elevation.

Is heat good for a pulled muscle?

A pulled muscle should first be treated using the R.I.C.E. method. During the first 72 hours, heat should be avoided to prevent increased swelling and inflammation. After about 72 hours, heat can be incorporated into treatment to increase blood flow and aid the overall healing process.

What is the strongest anti-inflammatory medication?

Research shows diclofenac is the strongest and most effective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine available. 10 Diclofenec is sold under the prescription brand names Cambia, Cataflam, Zipsor, and Zorvolex. It is also available as a topical gel, Voltaren, which is available over the counter.

How do you know if you've pulled a muscle?

Check if you have a sprain or strain you have pain, tenderness or weakness – often around your ankle, foot, wrist, thumb, knee, leg or back. the injured area is swollen or bruised. you cannot put weight on the injury or use it normally. you have muscle spasms or cramping – where your muscles painfully tighten on their ...

What is the difference between a pulled muscle and a torn muscle?

A muscle strain is an injury that occurs when a muscle or a tendon is overstretched. A muscle tear is when a muscle or a tendon is overstretched and it tears.

What are 3 symptoms of a muscle strain?

SymptomsPain or tenderness.Redness or bruising.Limited motion.Muscle spasms.Swelling.Muscle weakness.

Should you massage a pulled muscle?

As is the case for muscle and tendon strains, deep tissue massage to the injury itself is contraindicated in the acute stage of any sprain. However, massage for your injury in the surrounding musculature can aid in reducing inflammation and speed up the recovery process.

Is it good to stretch out a pulled muscle?

While it may seem counterintuitive, stretching a strained muscle only makes it worse. Your best bet involves avoiding any movement that agitates the affected area and continue to rest until the pain subsides. Light stretching can assist with a minor strain, but only if incorporated a few days after the injury occurred.

Should you massage a torn muscle?

Massage. Therapeutic massage helps loosen tight muscles and increase blood flow to help heal damaged tissues. Applying pressure to the injured muscle tissue also helps remove excess fluid and cellular waste products. A 2012 study found that massage immediately following an injury may even speed strained muscle healing.

What is a pulled muscle?

A pulled or strained muscle is one that has been overstretched due to physical activity, resulting in swelling and pain. Pulled muscles are common injuries that can usually be effectively treated at home. Learn how to care for your pulled muscle and decide when medical intervention is necessary. Steps.

How to prevent pulling muscle?

Do strength training. Incorporating weightlifting and other strength training into your exercise routine can help prevent the chance that you'll pull a muscle during an activity. Use free weights at home or work out in the weight room at the gym to build a solid, strong core and keep your muscles limber. ...

How to stop a muscle tear?

1. Rest the muscle. When you strain a muscle, stop doing the activity that caused it to be strained. Pulled muscles are actually rips in muscle fibers, and further exertion could cause the tear to grow larger and lead to a serious injury. Let the amount of pain you feel be your guide.

What does it mean when your muscles are pulled?

Warm up. Pulled muscles happen when your muscles get overstrained, which can often occur as a result of exerting yourself before you've properly warmed up. Take the time to stretch and get your muscles warmed up before you participate in a physical activity.

How long does it take to recover from a pulled muscle?

Take a few days to recover from the pulled muscle before resuming the activity that caused it.

What does it mean when you pull a muscle?

You may think you pulled a muscle during a physical activity, but if you experience these other symptoms at the same time, make an appointment to see a doctor: Bruising. Swelling. Signs of infection, like itchiness and red, raised skin.

How to get rid of a sore muscle?

2. Ice the muscle. Icing the area reduces swelling and helps ease the pain. Fill a large food storage bag with ice cubes. Wrap it in a thin towel, to protect your skin from getting damaged by direct ice. Hold the ice pack to your sore area for 20 minutes at a time 4 to 8 times a day until the swelling has gone down.

What is the best treatment for a sprained limb?

Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) can be helpful for pain relief during this time period. A physical therapist can help you to maximize stability and strength of the injured joint or limb. Your doctor may suggest that you immobilize the area with a brace or splint.

What to look for in a physical exam for a ruptured tendon?

Diagnosis. During the physical exam, your doctor will check for swelling and points of tenderness. The location and intensity of your pain can help determine the extent and nature of the damage. In more severe injuries, where the muscle or tendon has been completely ruptured, your doctor may be able to see or feel a defect in the area of injury.

What is the best medicine for a strained back muscle?

Consider nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs can help reduce the inflammation of a strained back muscle and may temporarily decrease swelling and provide pain relief. Examples of over-the-counter NSAIDs include aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. Before using an NSAID, carefully read and follow the label’s directions.

How to get rid of muscle strain in lower back?

Get up and walk around, even if for just a few minutes at a time. Incorporate gentle stretching exercises into your day to restore your mobility and protect your back against future injury. See Exercises for Lower Back Muscle Strain.

What to do when your back hurts?

When your back pain suddenly flares up, discontinue the physical activity that you’re doing. It is important to protect your lower back from further injury. Don’t push through your workout or continue to do chores around the house. Overusing a strained back muscle may worsen the damage and delay the recovery.

What is a pulled muscle in the lower back?

Here’s how: Lower Back Strain Video Save. Lower back strain, also referred to as a pulled muscle, is caused by damage to the muscles and ligaments of the lower back. Watch: Lower Back Strain Video.

How to get rid of stiffness in back?

Switching from ice to heat therapy. Place a heat pack or electric heating pad against your back. The warmth will increase blood flow to the injured area and may soothe your strained muscles and connective tissues. 1 Heat therapy can also reduce stiffness so you can more easily get up and exercise.

How to get rid of bumps on back?

Applying ice to your back can reduce blood flow to the injured area, which helps numb the pain and reduce inflammation and swelling. 2 If you don’t have an instant ice pack on hand, you can try any of the following options: Fill a small plastic bag with ice (and include water to smooth out the bumps).

How to sleep with a back strain?

A back muscle strain can make it difficult to sleep. For a more comfortable position to rest or sleep, try to keep your spine naturally aligned: 1 For people who prefer sleeping on the back, place a pillow underneath your knees to reduce stress on your lower back. 4 2 For people who prefer sleeping on the side, place a pillow between your knees to help maintain balanced hips and natural spine alignment.

What is a pulled muscle?

A pulled muscle, or muscle strain , occurs when a muscle or tendon is overstretched or torn. Muscle strains can occur without warning and affect people of all ages and fitness levels. Because these types of injuries can range in severity, you should see your doctor right away if you:

How long does it take to heal a pulled muscle?

However, you should consult with your doctor if you still have pain after 24 hours of at-home treatment.

How to help a muscle sprain?

Ice can help reduce inflammation. Never apply ice directly to bare skin; instead, wrap the ice pack in a towel first. Compression. Wrapping the muscle with an elastic bandage can help bring down swelling.

What are the symptoms of a pulled muscle?

Symptoms of a pulled muscle include: Bruising, swelling or redness at the injury site. Difficulty using the affected muscle. Muscle weakness. Sudden pain when using the affected muscle. Pain when the muscle is at rest.

How to reduce swelling from a muscle injury?

Medication. Your physician may recommend a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication, like ibuprofen, to reduce pain and swelling. Heat. Use a heating pad a few times a day after three days. Never apply heat directly to bare skin; always wrap the heating pad in a towel.

How to prevent pulling muscles?

How to prevent a pulled muscle. “Pulled muscles can be prevented by utilizing proper technique when lifting and carrying,” says Dr. Powell. “For instance, individuals may pull a muscle at the gym due to improper form while exercising or by lifting something heavy and forgetting to bend at the knees.

What causes muscle strains?

Muscle strains can be caused by: 1 Lifting an object that is too heavy 2 Lifting improperly 3 Not warming up before or stretching after a workout 4 Overusing a muscle 5 Poor posture

What to do if you have a muscle strain?

See prompt medical care if you suspect a mild or moderate muscle strain. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have symptoms of a severe muscle strain or tear including severe, disabling pain.

How to reduce the risk of pulling a muscle?

You may be able to lower your risk of pulling a muscle by: Avoiding strenuous activities when your muscles are already fatigued or weakened. Cross-training with a variety of activities. Maintaining physical conditioning, flexibility, strength, and a healthy body weight.

What causes one group of muscles to overcompensate for another group?

Muscle imbalance, which causes one group of muscles to overcompensate for another group. Overcompensation is overworking and straining the muscle. Muscle tightness. Muscle fatigue or weakness from overuse or underuse. Poor conditioning.

What causes muscle strains and pulls?

Examples of causes include: Direct blow to the muscle. Excessive contraction of the muscle.

What are the complications of muscle strain?

Other complications include chronic pain, disability, loss of mobility, weakness, and poor quality of life.

What is repetitive strain injury?

They are repetitive strain injuries—the result of prolonged, repetitive overuse of the muscle or muscle group. When you use the same muscles in the same pattern, repeatedly over time, small stresses build on each other. This eventually causes wear and tear on the muscle leading to a strain. Examples of causes include:

Why do muscles and tendons work together?

Muscles and tendons work together to enable movement. It’s common to injure both types of tissue during a strain. A similar injury—a sprain—affects ligaments, which hold bones to other bones at a joint. Some muscles are more susceptible to strains than others. It’s common to have a pulled neck muscle, pulled back muscle, or pulled calf muscle.

What is the most common treatment for muscle strains?

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), the most common and effective treatment for muscle strains is the RICE method . The individual letters of RICE stand for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. In particular, RICE involves the following:

What is the best treatment for a torn muscle?

Anti-inflammatory pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil) or aspirin can help reduce swelling and pain. Physical therapy may also be needed. Surgery is the typical treatment for torn or ruptured muscles. You and your doctor will discuss all surgical or nonsurgical options available to repair your muscle.

How to prevent muscle strains from recurring?

There are several ways you can prevent a muscle strain from recurring, including: allowing for proper time to heal from an injury. stretching your muscles daily. cross-training for sports by weightlifting or choosing another activity to strengthen your muscles. warming up before exercise or intense activity.

What is a muscle strain?

A muscle strain, or pulled muscle, occurs when your muscle is overstretched or torn. This can be minor and like soreness after an intense workout, or it can be so severe that it needs surgical repair. Muscle strains are a very common injury. Most people who participate in sports have experienced it at some point in their lives.

How to reduce swelling in a muscle?

Compress your muscle by applying a steady, gentle pressure on it. This prevents swelling and inflammation, which delay healing. Wrapping an elastic bandage around the affected muscle is best. Elevate the injury above your heart to reduce swelling. Use pillows or other devices to raise an affected limb while you rest.

How to heal a strained muscle?

This can help strained muscles and other injuries. Ice your muscle by using cold packs with a barrier between them and your skin four to eight times per day for 20 minutes at a time.

What is the best way to treat muscle strain?

Properly treating muscle strain requires the right supplies and a comfortable place to rest. You may need the following supplies: Depending on the muscle affected, you may need assistive devices to help stabilize the muscle, especially if it affects one of the limbs. These can include:

How to relieve pain from a pulled quad?

Gentle stretching can help relieve pain from a pulled quad. Image Credit: iprogressman/iStock/GettyImages. A pulled muscle is no fun. Unfortunately, it's very common, and most athletes or fitness enthusiasts will experience one at some point.

What to do after a quad is pulled?

In rare cases, a pulled quad needs surgery to repair torn ligaments, muscle or tendon.

How to heal a quad tear?

Stretch and Strengthen. For mild tears, after the pain and swelling have subsided, you can begin light exercise to prevent stiffness and regain mobility and strength in your injured quad. Usually this is about five days after the strain occurred. A few times a day, gently stretch the quadriceps muscle.

What happens if you pull your quadriceps?

If you've pulled your quadriceps — a collection of four muscles on the front of your thigh — your discomfort will range from mild to severe. Mild cases can be treated at home, while more serious pulls may need medical attention. Advertisement.

What to do if you pull your quad?

Your physician may recommend over-the-counter pain relief or prescribe medication to relieve pain and swelling of your pulled quad. She may also refer you to a physical therapist, who can employ techniques, including electrotherapy, to encourage the healing process. Sports massage can also be beneficial.

How to heal a quadricep pull?

Ice: Apply an ice pack to the area for 20 minutes every few hours. Never apply an ice pack directly to the skin.

How to strengthen quadriceps?

Knee extensions will help you begin to strengthen the quadriceps muscle. Sit in a chair and extend the injured leg in front of you and flex and extend the knee through its full range of motion. You can use an exercise band or ankle weights to add gentle resistance.

How to prevent a pulled muscle?

Movement and Stretching. To prevent a pulled muscle, it is best to warm up and stretch, but it is equally important to avoid allowing pulled muscles to become too stiff after an injury. What to do: Try to move the affected area several times during the day without stressing or straining.

How to treat pulled muscle in back?

Another common ingredient, which is found in most kitchens and is great for pulled muscle relief, is cayenne pepper. To a teaspoon of warm olive oil add ½ tsp of cayenne pepper powder. Rub the oil into the affected area. Repeat this treatment 2 or 3 times a day.

How to get rid of muscle pain from a sprain?

What to do: As a soak: add 2 cups of apple cider vinegar to a bathtub full of hot water. Soak once daily for a few days or until your muscle pain subsides. Additionally, you can drink 1 Tbsp of apple cider vinegar mixed in a glass of warm water daily for a week. Add a little honey if necessary for taste. How it works:

What does it mean when you pull a muscle?

A pulled muscle can also be the result of a repetitive movement or from poor posture.

How to reduce inflammation in a paper cup?

Rub the ice on the affected area tearing off portions of the paper cup to reveal more ice as you go. Use ice as long as the affected area is inflamed. How it works: The most well known method of reducing inflammation and pain is the use of ice, which slows the histamine responsible for inflammation.

Can a pulled muscle be painful?

A pulled muscle can be painfully irritating or completely debilitating, depending upon where it’s located. To get the quickest relief, avoid further injury and get back to your regular routine without pain, follow any one or combination of these 15 remedies.

Is it normal to not move a muscle?

It is a normal assumption that if you are not moving your painful limb, it will not be in pain. But this is not true with a pulled muscle! It is very likely that it will indeed hurt when it is not in motion. This is not a good sign at all, and can be a very hard thing to cope with because it is difficult to rest when you cannot find relief, even in resting.

What is the treatment for a minor strain?

– that’s Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation – treatment for injuries. Your orthopedist may also recommend NSAIDs – non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – to help reduce swelling.

How to prevent muscle tears?

In most cases, muscles tears are preventable by observing proper warm-up techniques and never forcing a cold muscle to perform full tilt. Using the proper form in any activity is also critical to maintaining healthy muscles. Know your body’s limits. When it comes to pushing your body to the extreme, there’s no such thing as “no pain no gain.” In fact, pain often is the first sign that a muscle has been injured. Get to know your body and understand its signals. This is the best way to not only avoid injury, but to ensure continued peak performance.

How long does it take for a muscle tear to heal?

Moderate tears may require physical therapy. A severe tear that requires surgical repair can take months or longer to heal.

Where do torn muscles occur?

While any muscle can be affected, torn muscles most often occur in the lower back, neck, shoulder and hamstring. Torn muscles are categorized by the severity of the injury: mild which is a simple strain affecting 5% of a muscle’s fibers; moderate which is up to 25%-30% and accompanied by swelling, decreased range of motion and pain;

How do you know if you have a torn muscle?

Symptoms of Torn Muscles. When you tear a muscle, even when it is mild, you will know immediately. Expect pain and soreness, as well as spasms and swelling in the affected area. Depending on the severity of the strain, you may find it difficult to move the area, if at all.

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