Most gyms or hotels feature saunas or steam rooms next to the pool.
Skip the Epsom salt if you have an open wound or a burn that’s healing.
Read the manufacturer’s instructions about how to safely use a heating pad or electric blanket. Never fall asleep while you’re using the electric blanket because it’s a fire hazard.
If your muscles feel tight or cramped, don’t push yourself to do vigorous cardio. The point is to relax your muscles.
For instance, target the muscles in your lower limbs, your stomach and chest, your arms, shoulders, and neck, and your face.
Pull the top of your foot toward your torso with your leg outstretched. This stretch targets your calves. Stand with a leg stretched out and toes pointed down to work the muscles in the front of your legs. Slowly rotate your ankle and foot in circles for a good stretch along your lower legs. Raise your shoulders up toward your head and drop them back down. Then, rotate your shoulders in small circles. These stretch muscles in your shoulders. Lean your head to one shoulder until you feel a gentle stretch in your neck. Then, lean your head to the opposite shoulder for a good stretch along your neck.
Don’t take more than the recommended amount within a 24-hour period. If you’re feeling a lot of pain or you don’t think the medication is helping, reach out to your doctor.
Magnesium supplements are available over-the-counter at grocery stores, pharmacies, and online. It’s always a good idea to check with your doctor before starting a new supplement, especially if you’re taking prescription medications. Want to get magnesium from your diet? Eat foods like spinach, peanuts, brown rice, and almonds!
Topical pain relievers are a good choice if you’re at a greater risk for side effects from oral medications.
Acupressure is similar to massage therapy and acupuncture. During a session, a certified acupressure practitioner presses or stimulates on specific points to loosen them.
You might feel better after just one visit, but if you’ve had lasting muscle pain or tightness, it might take a few more visits to get the results you want. Check with your insurance company to see if you’ve got chiropractic coverage. You may have to see a chiropractor in your network to have it paid for.
If you can’t find a certified acupuncturist in your area or within your insurance network, ask your doctor or chiropractor if they also offer acupuncture services.
For example, they might prescribe carisoprodol or cyclobenzaprine for muscle spasms. If you’re in severe pain, they may give you diazepam. Many of these medications are very effective but habit-forming so it’s important to take them exactly as your doctor directs.
