What Are the Treatments for Sore Muscles?

Sore muscles can be caused by a variety of factors, but excessive and/or strenuous physical activity is the usual cause. Although muscle soreness can range from mild to severe, there are effective treatments available to treat sore muscles. What follows is an overview of the most common and effective sore muscle treatment options.

Rest

• Resting sore muscles and protecting them from excessive use and/or strain are very effective treatment strategies that help to reduce muscle inflammation and irritation, both of which help to reduce muscle pain and increases muscle flexibility.

Light Stretching

• Sore muscles tend to constrict and become stiff and tight. Doing light muscle stretches, using gentle pressure and smooth, controlled movements, is an effective treatment that helps to prevent muscle cramping and reduce pain levels and soreness.

Heat

• Applying heat to sore muscles helps to increase blood circulation to the sore areas and helps to increase muscle flexibility and reduce cramping, all of which help to reduce muscle soreness and speed healing.

Range of Motion Exercises

• Stiff, sore muscles generally result in restricted joint movements and reduced flexibility. Performing a gentle range of motion exercises, which requires moving various body joints through full ranges of motion, helps to reduce muscle stiffness and soreness.

Massage

• Massage is an effective treatment for sore muscles that can help prevent muscle tightness and increase circulation to the inflamed muscle areas, both of which help to reduce muscle soreness and speed healing.