Applying a cold pack on the affected muscle can help lessen pain and inflammation. The cold will constrict the blood vessels to reduce the flow of blood to the area.
- Wrap a handful of ice cubes in a thin towel.
- Place it on the affected area for about 15 minutes.
- Repeat every hour for the first 24 to 72 hours.
A bag of frozen vegetables works well if you don’t have ice cubes.
2. Hot Water Soak
After the first 24 hours of the onset of pain, a hot water soak will provide quick relaxation and mild pain relief. It will promote increased blood flow and speed up the healing process. Do not use this remedy during the first 24 hours.
- Fill your bath tub with hot water and mix in one cup of Epsom salt. The magnesium in Epsom salt promotes muscle relaxation.
- Soak the affected body part in this water for at least twenty minutes.
- Repeat a few times a day for one to two days to help relax stiff, sore muscles.
