How to Treat Muscle Aches

Muscle aches arise from a number of conditions. Usually it's easy to know what preceded the pain. A muscle injury sometimes includes the tendons and ligaments, which might require a trip to the doctor. Most treatments involve home remedies with non-prescription products. Read on to learn how to treat muscle aches.

Things You'll Need

• Medicated creams
• Ibuprofen/acetaminophen
• Epsom salt
• Ice pack
• Sports drinks
• Bathtub

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Instructions

• 1

  Rub medicated creams to the sore muscle area. Visit a local drugstore and ask the pharmacist for a recommendation. These feel like heat when applied.

• 2

  Massage the area with your fingertips. When problems develop from working out or doing athletics this works well in giving flexibility and looseness.

• 3

  Continue with mild to light stretching exercises for flexibility.

• 4

  Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen to treat muscle aches. Read the label for directions.

• 5

  Get Epsom salt for soaking feet and lower leg. Pour as directed into warm water and soak.

• 6

  Apply an ice pack to reduce muscle pain and inflammation. Best results are achieved when used within the first 24 hours. Make an ice pack with a sealable plastic bag and ice cubes.

• 7

  Treat muscle cramps and aches from workouts by drinking hydration drinks with electrolytes. Go to a supermarket to buy sports drinks and look for the word "electrolytes" on the bottle.

• 8

  Soak in a hot bath. This treatment increases blood circulation to the muscles.