A pulled muscle, also called a strain, occurs when the fibrous tissues that make up a muscle are stretched or torn. The Mayo Clinic explains that strains often occur in the lower back and the back of the thigh (hamstring). Muscle strains, which can occur in most parts of the body that have muscle tissue, are characterized by pain, swelling, trouble moving the affected area and sometimes spontaneous contraction of the tissues (spasm). There are several ways to treat a pulled muscle including drugs, therapy, surgery and home treatments.
Medication
Over-the-counter pain-relieving medications are often effective in the temporary treatment of pain associated with a pulled muscle. The Mayo Clinic suggests ibuprofen and acetaminophen as the most effective choices. In more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe a stronger pain-relieving medication.
Therapy
Ice packs or a cool bath immediately following an injury and every two to three hours can reduce swelling. This treatment should be applied for about 15 to 20 minutes during each treatment. Hot compresses are not usually helpful in the case of pulled muscles because much of the pain is due to inflammation. Cold treatment is more effective in diminishing the swelling and numbing the pain. More severe muscle injuries may require a brace or splint to keep the area from moving.
After a few days of rest, the American College of Sports Medicine recommends gentle movement of the muscles to encourage rehabilitation. More severe muscle pulls may require physical therapy to assist in healing the muscle damage. Soon after rehabilitation begins, more moderate exercises will be carried out, including minimal-resistance training and repetitive motions, until the injury has fully healed.
Surgery
Severely pulled or torn muscles require surgery. The procedure will reconnect the muscle fibers to allow proper healing. This is not a typical treatment for a simple pulled muscle.
Compression
An elastic bandage can be wrapped around the injury to inhibit swelling. To properly wrap the area, begin furthest from the heart and work your way inward. If the pain increases or the area becomes numb, loosen the elastic bandage. The wrap can be removed once swelling diminishes and reapplied as needed when the swelling returns.
Elevation
Gravity is effective in reducing swelling by preventing excess fluid from building up at the site of the pulled muscle. To utilize gravity, elevate the injured area above chest level, especially when sleeping.
Rest
Get plenty of rest and use the area as little as possible for several days after the muscle injury occurs. Using the injured area can exacerbate swelling and pain. The injury will heal much faster if it is allowed to rest. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends 24 to 72 hours of rest at a minimum.
