Muscle Strains: What Helps, What to Watch For, and When to Get Checked

Muscle strains are common after sports, travel, lifting, or an awkward movement. The challenge is that pain after an injury does not automatically mean the problem is only muscular.

Early supportive care

For a mild strain, relative rest and gradual return to movement are usually more useful than complete inactivity. Ice or heat may help comfort depending on the timing and the person. Gentle range of motion can be added as symptoms allow.

Pain-relief options

Topical products such as lidocaine or topical anti-inflammatory medications may be useful for selected patients, but the right choice depends on the location of pain, allergies, medications, pregnancy status, kidney or gastrointestinal history, and other health factors.

Oral medications such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are also not appropriate for everyone. Medication choice should be individualized rather than treated as a universal recipe.

When it may be more than a strain

Seek evaluation for severe or worsening pain, weakness, numbness, significant swelling or bruising, inability to bear weight or use the affected area normally, pain after major trauma, fever, bowel or bladder changes, or symptoms that are not improving as expected.

Telehealth has limits

Some musculoskeletal concerns can begin with telehealth, especially when the history is straightforward. Others require an in-person examination, imaging, or urgent evaluation. Location and licensure rules also matter when care crosses state lines.

— Nora Phillips, DNP, APRN Central Health | Wahiawa, Hawaiʻi