- Rest, Icing, Compression, Elevation (R.I.C.E)
- Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
- Herbal ingredients and natural supplements
R.I.C.E
R.I.C.E is a home remedy that is often recommended immediately following common injuries to reduce pain and swelling.
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REST: Rest the affected area for a few days so that you do not make the damage worse or delay recovery. Be careful to not rest too long because it can cause the muscles to become weak and prolong the healing process.
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ICE: Use an ice pack on the affected area immediately. The cold will constrict the blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the affected area to reduce swelling and inflammation.
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COMPRESSION: Wrap the affected area with an elastic medical bandage for a compression that is snug but not too tight to reduce the swelling
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ELEVATION: Elevate the sore body part to the level of your heart to reduce pain, swelling and throbbing.
NSAIDS
Over-the-counter products like ibuprofen (NSAIDs) work relatively quickly to temporarily minimize pain. However, they contain synthetic chemicals that can be dangerous when overused and misused. This can cause harmful side effects such as bleeding stomach ulcers, high blood pressure and kidney damage. This build up of toxins and stress on your body then requires it to work harder to better heal itself.
Natural Supplements
Herbal ingredients work with your body to bring it back in balance and enhance your body’s ability to heal in a healthy way.
Taken regularly, certain herbal ingredients can have a powerful impact on helping your body recover faster. They can even minimize the effects of future injury – without any toxins or chemicals filling up your body.
Mild to moderate muscle strains can heal on their own over time, but the following natural remedies can help you speed up and enhance your recover:
1. TURMERIC
Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin that is a natural antioxidant. It has been studied to effectively reduce inflammation and help with muscle soreness.
2. TART CHERRY JUICE
Tart cherries have antioxidants that may help reduce swelling and pain associated with a strained muscle. According to an Oregon Health & Science University study, tart cherries have a high amount of anti-inflammatory content that can help with muscle pain.
3. ASHWAGANDHA
Ashwagandha root slows and inhibits inflammation. It has also been shown to reduce muscle soreness and enhance muscle recovery.
4. GINGER ROOT
Ginger root has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. It is great at reducing swelling and soreness. Long-term, getting plenty of ginger in your diet can effectively reduce day-to-day muscle pain.