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Muscle strain Treatment for leg strain

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Strains

Alternative Names: Pulled muscle First Aid: Apply ice immediately to reduce swelling. Wrap the ice in cloth -- avoid using ice directly on the skin. Apply ice for 10 to 15 minutes every 1 hour for the first day. Then, every 3 to 4 hours. Use ice for the first 3 days. After that, either heat or ice may be helpful. Rest the pulled muscle for at least a day. If possible, keep the pulled muscle elevated above the level of the heart. Avoid using a strained muscle while it is still painful. When the pain subsides, start activity slowly and in moderation. Call immediately for emergency medical assistance if: You are unable to move the muscle. The injury is bleeding. Call your doctor if the pain does not go away after several weeks. References: Text Continues Below DeLee JC, Drez, Jr., D, Miller MD, eds. DeLee and Drez’s Orthopaedic Sports Medicine. 2nd Ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders; 2003. Frontera, WR, Silver JK, eds. Essentials of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. 1st Ed. Philadelphia, PA: Hanley & Belfus; 2002. Marx JA, Hockberger RS, Walls RM, eds. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 5th Ed. St. Louis, MO: Mosby; 2002.

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