Top self-help remedies for muscle pain

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Muscle pain is a common complaint, but this doesn’t make it any less unpleasant for those who suffer from it. There are a range of self-help treatments that can help to minimise discomfort and promote healing, but the best course of action very much depends on the precise cause of the pain.

For example, if you’ve strained a muscle, it is generally best to immobilise it for at least a few days, whereas if you have suffered a sprain, you should aim to start moving the affected area as soon as it’s not too painful to do so.

This means that before you start investigating the self-help techniques on offer, you should make sure you understand the exact nature of your injury. However, as a general rule, there are certain basic things you can do to help minimise your muscle pain.

Follow the PRICE technique after an injury

If your muscle pain is the result of an injury, you should first follow the PRICE technique. This means you ought to:

• Protect the injured area from further damage using suitable supports
• Rest the affected area for 48 to 72 hours (potentially with the aid of crutches)
• Apply Ice wrapped in a damp towel for 15 to 20 minutes every two to three hours during the day for the first 48 to 72 hours
• Compress or bandage the injured area to limit swelling
• Elevate the area to reduce swelling further

Avoid HARM

Similarly, you should steer clear of HARM for the first 72 hours after a strain or sprain. To do this, avoid:

• Heat (such as hot baths or heat packs)
• Alcohol
• Running
• Massage

Painkillers

To help reduce your discomfort, you can take over-the-counter painkillers. Always make sure you follow the instructions on the packaging when you do this, and take care not to exceed the recommended dose.

Massage therapy

After the initial phase of your injury, you may still find you are suffering from pain. At this point, it can help to use massage treatments. It’s now possible to purchase special riser recliner chairs and adjustable beds that offer massage therapy. For example,  Adjustable beds and chairs feature Cyclo-Therapy technology that is medically-proven to improve blood circulation and to ease away aches and pains. You can choose from a number of settings, ranging from gentle to vigorous.

As well as offering relief from a variety of medical conditions, it can help you to recover from sporting injuries. The system employs a three-way technique that rotates and pulsates away from the centre, vibrating in all directions.

Warm baths

Another option once you’ve passed the initial recovery phase is to soak in warm baths. This can help to relax your muscles and can soothe discomfort.

A good night’s sleep

It’s also important to have a good quality bed and a mattress that offers you the perfect level of support and enables you to get a good night’s sleep. Being well rested can help your body to recover, meaning you are better able to fend off muscle pain. It’s worth taking a look at the Aveon memory foam mattresses now available. These products are perfect for relieving aches and pains.