Table of Contents
How long does it take for a pulled back muscle to heal?
Compared to many other kinds of back injuries, a pulled muscle is usually straightforward to diagnose and easy to treat, and symptoms usually resolve within 4 to 6 weeks. Some severe muscle injuries, such as a complete muscle tear, can take months to heal.
How do you know if you pulled a muscle in your back?
Common Pulled Back Muscle Symptoms
- Local swelling.
- Muscle spasms.
- Tenderness when touched.
- Cramping.
- Intense or dull pain.
- Pain with specific movements.
- Tightness or stiffness in the muscles.
- Pain relief in resting positions.
Is heat or ice better for a pulled back muscle?
When you have back pain from exercise or exertion, use cold therapy immediately after the activity to reduce tissue damage, inflammation, and pain. After a 24-hour period, use heat therapy to encourage tissue healing.
How should I sleep with a pulled back muscle?
1. Sleep on your side to relieve pain from a pulled back muscle
- Avoid a tight curled-up fetal position (knees pulled in toward the body), and instead sleep with your body slightly elongated.
- Slip a slim pillow between your knees to support the natural curvature of your spine.
Can a doctor do anything for a pulled back muscle?
Most cases of a pulled back muscle are treated using standard self-care or non-invasive treatments. Some typical first-step treatments for a pulled low back muscle include: Anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen reduce inflammation, which often contributes to pain.
Is a hot tub good for a pulled back muscle?
The use of hot water for pain reduction, improved blood flow and circulation, and relaxation dates back to ancient times across several cultures. Today we call it hydrotherapy, and yes, hydrotherapy through hot tub use is demonstrated as a modern-day solution to help soothe and heal back pain.
Symptoms of a mild back strain usually improve within one to two weeks and are gone within four to six weeks. In the legs, mild or moderate strains may take up to 8 to 10 weeks or more to heal. Symptoms of a severe (Grade III) strain may persist until the torn muscle is repaired surgically. To help prevent muscle strains:
What is the best way to relieve the back muscles?
Home remedies for fast back pain relief Exercise to get muscles moving. Water exercises can help alleviate back pain. Use heat and cold. Ice packs are most beneficial when a person uses them directly after an injury, such as a strain. Stretch. Apply a pain-relief cream. Try Arnica. Switch shoes. Make workstation changes. Get enough sleep. Manage or reduce stress. When to see a doctor.
What is the best way to treat a pulled muscle?
Anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce swelling and alleviate painful symptoms. These medications do have potential side effects, and you should check with your doctor prior to starting anti-inflammatory medications. Stretching and strengthening are useful in the treatment and prevention of muscle strain injuries.
What is the best treatment for a torn back muscle?
Most cases of a pulled back muscle are treated using standard self-care or non-invasive treatments. Some typical first-step treatments for a pulled low back muscle include: Anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen reduce inflammation, which often contributes to pain.