What should I do for a strained intercostal muscle?

Answer by  mammakat (11147)

RICE is the rule of thumb- Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation. After initial treatment, stop icing and start using heat. Anti-inflammatories are a good specific. As hard as it is to say, you have to STOP, and allow the muscle rest. I don't know what your sport is, but chances are, it's one that will aggravate. A few weeks should suffice.

Answer by  rhickok1109 (233)

Wear a rib belt to keeop movement to a minimum, but don't tighten it too much. Avoid any exercise that would cause heavy breathing. Treat with ice by wetting a towel, wringing it out thoroughly, and putting the ice on top of it. If the problem persists for more than two or three weeks, see a doctor.

Answer by  rbiales (3441)

Intercostal muscles repair in their own time, they are hard to brace. Over the counter inflammation medication may help speed repair.

Answer by  hahagal (983)

One of the most important to do for any strained muscle is to use heat or cold on the sore for an hour at the time.