Recovering from a Torn Muscle: Home Care & When to See a Doctor

Torn muscles can be extremely painful and sometimes the only thing that can be done is natural healing. Other times, surgery may be necessary. There are, however, some things that you can do at home in order to help speed up the healing process and get yourself back to normal again.

Things You'll Need

• Elastic bandage (Ace or another brand)
• NSAID (ibuprofen)
• Heating pad

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Instructions

• 1

  Visit your doctor to make sure the muscle is in fact torn and how severe it is. Sometimes, torn muscles require surgery in order to properly heal.

• 2

  Immobilize the injured muscle. A splint could be used to keep the affected joint from moving. If you can still contract the muscle, you may only need gentle pressure, using an elastic bandage.

• 3

  Take a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drug like ibuprofen in order to reduce swelling and ease some of the pain. In some situations, muscle relaxers may be necessary.

• 4

  Use deep heat (such as a heating pad) in order to dull the pain. Rest as much as possible.

• 5

  Massage the area when it starts feeling less tender.