Pulled muscle

• Apply ice immediately to reduce swelling. Wrap the ice in cloth -- avoid using ice directly on the skin. Apply ice for 10 to 15 minutes every 1 hour for the first day. Then, every 3 to 4 hours.
• Use ice for the first 3 days. After that, either heat or ice may be helpful.
• Rest the pulled muscle for at least a day. If possible, keep the pulled muscle elevated above the level of the heart.
• Avoid using a strained muscle while it is still painful. When the pain subsides, start activity slowly and in moderation.

• You are unable to move the muscle.
• The injury is bleeding.

Call your doctor if the pain does not go away after several weeks.

Images

Treatment for leg strain

Muscle strain

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Strains Prevention

Review Date: 05/02/2009
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)