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Remedies for a Pulled Muscle

There are numerous ways for someone to pull a muscle. All it takes is for the fibers of this muscle to abruptly contract or stretch too far to sustain such an injury. Throwing a ball, raking leaves or taking an awkward fall can each cause a strain or tear. Even lifting or carrying a heavy or cumbersome object often triggers an injury. While there may be ways to prevent a pulled muscle, like stretching, conditioning and knowing your limits, this type of injury still happens, even to the most fit of us, making therapeutic remedies an important part of healing.

  1. Self-Care Remedies

    • Of all the remedies for a pulled muscle, ice is probably one of the most important. When you pull a muscle, regardless of its seriousness, ice the area as soon as possible. It cuts down on swelling and lessens the pain. However, ice should only be applied for 15 to 20 minutes every few hours. Longer lengths of time can actually worsen the strain.

      As you ice the pulled muscle, elevate the area of injury, and try to elevate it above your heart. Swelling lessens when an injured muscle is made higher than this organ.

      You can also help reduce swelling through compression. The easiest and most effective method of compression is to wrap the affected muscle with an elastic bandage. Always start from the outside and work in, so, if you've pulled a muscle in your forearm, start nearer the wrist and move up toward the elbow.

      Now that you've got the swelling under control, immobilize the pulled muscle. Cuffs, braces, splints and slings restrict movement and lessen the potential of "re-injury." From there, rest the area by limiting the level and intensity of activities. This doesn't mean you should stop exercising or training; just use moderation and avoid those things that may further pull the muscle.

      Beyond these self-care remedies, pain relievers and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like aspirin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen, can lessen inflammation and reduce pain caused by pulled muscles.

    Medical Advice

    • Of course, simply remedying the pulled muscle yourself may not be enough to treat the injury. It is highly recommended to contact your family physician for proper diagnosis. Though it may not feel like a serious strain, you could have torn the muscle, which may require a surgical procedure to better correct and remedy the affected muscle.

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