i strained my calf muscle after a thorough warm up . the strain occured as i was sprinting at the conclusion of my workout. this happened about 14 hrs . ago . since then i have been icing it 20 mins. at a time keeping it compressed wiht an ace bandage when not icing keeping it elevated and resting it . i have been rubbing down with bio- freeze, too. how long should i do this before introducing heat and is there something else i should or should not do.
Hi, Thanks for your query. The initial management for your condition is as follows -- Give adequate rest to the injured part and avoid any movements that produce pain-Apply ice wrapped in a damp towel to the injured area for 15 to 20 minutes every two to three hours during the day-Compress or bandage the injured area to limit any swelling and movement that could damage it further. You can use a cr\u00eape bandage or a simple elastic bandage - Keep the injured area raised and supported on a pillow to help reduce swelling. If your leg is injured, avoid having long periods of time when your leg is not raised.- Gentle massage with a painkiller cream over the injured area might be helpful If your symptoms are still persisting after the above measures, consult an orthopedic surgeon for further evaluation and management. I do hope that you have found something helpful, and I will be glad to answer any further query. Take care