A muscle spasm is a sudden contraction of any muscle or group of muscles. A muscle cramp is a painful muscle spasm. Muscle cramps commonly occur after intense exercise or during pregnancy. They may also be caused by certain medications, dehydration, low calcium or magnesium levels, or another medical condition. After Your Visit:
1. Rest your muscle to allow your injury to heal.
2. Put an ice pack on the injured area.
3. Wrap an elastic bandage around the area to decrease swelling. It should be tight enough for you to feel support. Do not wrap it too tightly.
4. Keep the injured muscle raised above your heart if possible.
5. Take all medications as directed. NSAIDs will decrease inflammation and pain. Muscle relaxers will help relax the muscle thus allowing you to move more easily.
6. When tolerable stretch the injured muscle. Stretch the muscle for about 30 seconds. Do this four times a day. You may stretch the muscle until you feel a slight pulling, but no pain. Stop stretching the muscle if you feel pain. an injury. If the medicine makes your pain go away, you may start using the muscle
How can a muscle strain be prevented?
1. Always use proper footwear when playing sports.
2. Do warm up and cool down exercises.
3. Drink plenty of liquids during and after exercise.
4. Eat high carbohydrate foods.
5. Keep your muscles strong by doing strength training exercises.
6. Slowly start your exercise or sports training program as directed by your caregiver.
Seek Care Immediately If:
1. The area of your injured muscle becomes very swollen and feels tight inside.
2. Your pain and swelling worsen or do not go away.
3. You suddenly cannot feel or move your injured muscle.
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