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First Aid & Emergencies

Call 911 NOW if you are having:

  • Chest Pain
  • Difficulty Breathing
  • Severe Bleeding
  • Sudden Weakness or Numbness
  • A Medical Emergency
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Muscle Strain Treatment

Call 911 if:

  • The person heard a "popping" sound with the injury.
  • The person can't walk.
  • There's significant swelling, pain, fever, bleeding, or open cuts.

1. Control Swelling and Prevent Further Injury With PRICE

  • Protect by applying an elastic bandage, sling, or splint.
  • Rest the muscle for at least a day.
  • Ice immediately, and continue to ice for 10 to 15 minutes every hour.
  • Compress by gentlywrapping with an Ace or other elastic bandage. (Don't wrap tightly.)
  • Elevate injured area above the person's heart level, if possible, for at least 24 hours.

 

2. Manage Pain and Inflammation

  • Take an over-the-counter pain medication like aspirin or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Do not give aspirin to anyone under age 18.

 

3. Follow Up

  • Elevate and ice the area every 3 to 4 hours after the first day.

 

4. When to Call a Doctor

Call a health care provider if:

  • After a day or two the person can't move or put weight on the affected area.
  • The injured area is cool, pale, or changes color.
  • There is tingling or numbness.
  • There is new pain.
  • The person needs advice on how (and how soon) to resume normal exercise and activity.

 

WebMD Medical Reference

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Reviewed by Andrew Seibert, MD on October 02, 2011
© 2011 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

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