How to Use Heat Therapy on Pulled Muscles

Heat therapy works by raising the temperature of the skin and soft tissues. This will increase blood flow, which allows oxygen to access the pulled muscles. Heat therapy may also stimulate nerve endings, reducing pain. It is one of the most relaxing treatments for pulled muscles. It is also easy to perform in the privacy of your home. However, precautions must be taken into consideration before you use heat therapy.

Things You'll Need

• Towel
• Hot water bottle
• Heat pad

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Rest the pulled muscles. The more pressure you put on the pulled muscles, the more damage you could cause to the muscles or possibly the tendons.

• 2

  Heat the muscle area for no longer than 20 minutes. There are a number of heat therapy options available in your home that you can use for treating pulled muscles, such as a towel soaked in hot water, a hot water bottle or a hot bath.

• 3

  Protect your skin. Direct exposure to some products or exposure for a lengthy period of time may cause tissue damage, blisters or burns. If you use a heating pad, put a towel between the pad and your skin.

• 4

  Relax the pulled muscles to allow healing. Heat will have increased your blood flow, providing oxygen to the muscles.

• 5

  Use heat therapy three times a day (around 5 or 6 hours at a time). Make sure you do not fall asleep while using heat therapy to ensure you stay within the maximum time limit for each session.

• 6

  Use heat therapy before you exercise or perform any rigorous activity to loosen soft tissues and prevent stiffness.