Many people have experienced a pulled muscle at some point in their life. It’s something that occurs when the muscle becomes overstretched or torn resulting from exercising, overuse, or using that muscle improperly. It’s common to experience a pulled muscle from not warming up and stretching properly before you perform physical activity. There are different severities when it comes to pulled muscles from grade one, which is mild discomfort, to grade three, which is a severe injury resulting in significant pain. Most pulled muscles feel better on their own with home self care and do not require medical attention. 

CBD Muscle Rub

CBD rub is something that can lessen the pain from a pulled muscle. It’s good to turn to natural remedies first before trying anything else because it gives you complete control over what you’re putting in and on your body. A CBD rub can benefit you because you can apply it directly to your pain and because it contains anti-inflammatory properties, you’ll begin to feel relief without the traditional toxins that come with over-the-counter pain relief medications. CBD comes from cannabis, but it does not make you feel high, which is why it’s a good option for pain, as well as other health concerns such as depression and anxiety. 

Rest as Much as Possible 

When you have a pulled muscle, you should try to avoid using that muscle as much as possible. This can be hard, especially when it’s a muscle you need to use often. Rest is one of the most important things you can do to heal a pulled muscle, though. Resting gives the muscle time to rest and can prevent further injury. If you’re doing something that’s causing it pain and discomfort, you should stop if possible and give it a break. When you are resting your pulled muscle, it can help to elevate it. Try to keep it above the level of your heart by propping it up on pillows because this can help minimize swelling. 

Stretch Daily 

Whenever you’re planning on performing any physical activity, you should take the time to stretch. This can prevent you from getting other pulled muscles because it helps warm the muscles up and prepare them for what’s to come. There’s no such thing as stretching too much when it comes to warming up, but as a general rule, you should keep it within five to ten minutes

Utilize Ice and Heat 

If you have a pulled muscle, you can alternate between using ice and heat to relieve your pain. Using ice can decrease pain, reduce swelling and inflammation, and helps to numb the skin. It’s best used right after exercising or performing any activity that can cause muscle pain. Using heat can help to improve circulation, relieve pain, and help warm up stiff muscles. You should avoid using heat right after exercising with self care, if the area is numb, or if you have any open wounds or burns in that area. 

Compression Bandages 

Compression bandages are a popular treatment for pulled muscles, which includes wrapping an elastic bandage around the affected area. Compression applies gentle pressure to the pulled muscle, which prevents swelling and inflammation. When wrapping a compression bandage, it’s important to know how to wrap it correctly for the affected area of the body. These bandages are inexpensive, and something you can easily purchase at most stores that sell first aid supplies. 

If your self care home remedies do not provide you any relief from the pain caused by your pulled muscle, you may need to seek medical attention. You may also want to visit a doctor if you noticed any kind of popping sound with your injury, or if you are unable to walk. Pulled muscles generally heal within three to six weeks with home care.