The Go-To Guide On How To Identify, Prevent, And Treat A Pulled Muscle

Treatment: Rest

After pulling a muscle, it is important to rest it for an appropriate amount of time. Resting immediately after the injury is essential for facilitating recovery and avoiding further injury. However, resting for an extended period of time can decondition the muscle and cause it to harden. If resting the muscles does not reduce the pain within a couple of days, it is time to seek professional help. In this case, physicians typically recommend engaging in a light exercise routine to avoid deconditioning the muscle without causing further harm.

Treatment: Ice

Applying ice is an effective method for reducing pain and swelling. During the first day after an injury, healthcare professionals recommend applying ice for twenty minutes every hour. A convenient way to ice a pulled muscle is to use an ice pack. An ice pack contains liquid and can be left in the freezer until it is needed. As an alternative, simply use ice cubes from the freezer. Place the ice cubes in a plastic bag and wrap the bag in a tea towel. Avoid applying ice to bare skin because it can irritate and even burn the skin.