What will help a pulled muscle in back

Some research indicates that long-term NSAID use may impair normal tissue healing, but more research is needed. A back muscle strain can make it difficult to sleep. For a more comfortable position to rest or sleep, try to keep your spine naturally aligned:. When resting during the day, it may be uncomfortable to sit. Consider using a recliner instead, which puts less stress on your lower back. Some pain and stiffness are usually expected for a week or two as your muscles heal. Pulled Back Muscle Treatment.

The above is not a complete list. Many more pain relief options are available, such as manual manipulation, acupuncture , and other medications such as opioids. All medications have side effects. For low dose medications, such as over the counter pain relievers, side effects may not be noticeable. Muscle relaxants and opioid medications can be addictive, so it is important to take as instructed to reduce the chances of addiction.

A low back strain may signal that the back muscles are deconditioned and unable to effectively support the spine and the weight of the upper body. Walking, cycling, and swimming are some good options for staying active while recovering from lower back muscle strain. After recovering from a pulled back muscle, help prevent future injury by practicing good posture and properly warming up before activity.

Game Ready provides both therapeutic cold and active compression to help reduce pain, control swelling, reduce edema, and pump freshly oxygenated blood to healing tissue. Order Summary. Your cart is empty. Thank you. Email address. If you have a pulled back muscle, the recommended treatment steps typically include: Apply cold.

The faster you can apply cold to a pulled back muscle, the faster you may reduce pain, help control swelling, and start the healing process. Symptoms of a pulled muscle include:. Not warming up before or stretching after a workout. Rest the muscle for a few days or until your doctor gives you the okay.

If you had a minor muscle strain, you should be able to do some gentle movement after two days. Ice can help reduce inflammation. Never apply ice directly to bare skin; instead, wrap the ice pack in a towel first. Wrapping the muscle with an elastic bandage can help bring down swelling.

Your physician may recommend a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication , like ibuprofen, to reduce pain and swelling.