We all, at some time, suffer pain and discomfort in the muscles of the body. This can be from a variety of things. From injuries occurred during sport or through overuse at work or a repetitive action. And in some cases through illness and disease. Then we can start another discussion on stress and tension and the negative aspects it can have on a body.
So how can we recover and regain the full movement in the muscle and a reduction in the pain levels.
Rest
This is not as easy as it seems especially if your pain is caused due to work, either in a sedentary job or a job where you are more active.
Ice
This is a great option, although never apply ice straight to the skin. Use a towel as a barrier.
This can be done up to 48 hours after initial injury but only for 10 minutes at a time.
Rehydration
We are all told to drink more. We all at the Gym, carry bottles of water, but why? Or bodies perform much more efficiently with water intake, and so do our muscles. The more we use our bodies the more we need to hydrate to replace its stores.
Dropping Sets
If your strain was due to overdoing the weights at the Gym then I suggest to stop and rest. The rest will be more beneficial than you think. On return to that muscle group drop the weight level. It won`t be long till you can resume previous weight to which you will be much stronger.
Bath or Foot Soak
Having a soak in the bath will ease the immediate and acute pain level and if possible to use Epsom Salts. This can be used also in a Foot Soak. It can replenish Magnesium levels in the muscles.
Stretching
Some gentle stretching will keep effected area moving. But never over do this as it can cause more issues. As part of the repair and maintenance of the body this will aid the recovery process.
If unsure I would suggest professional advice.
Massage
Obviously Massage, If its a Sports Massage to the effected area or having regular treatments, having regular massage as a method of prevention and will improve muscle tone
reduces muscle tears and encourages blood flow throughout the whole body.
As a side note, drinking water prior to massage will ease the tenderness after the treatment.
That is why every massage therapist mentions to drink water after a treatment as she has removed all the toxins from the muscles and that needs to be replaced.
