Suggest treatment for strained calf muscle
Patient: 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. Doctor: 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 produces 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 crepe 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 where your leg is not raised.- Gentle massage with a pain killer 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