Pulling a quad muscle brings instant pain and discomfort that often results in being unable to participate in any sport. The quadriceps muscles extend along the front of the thigh and function to help your knee with walking, jumping or squatting. Injuries to the quad muscles can include pain when moving, pain when applying pressure to the front of the thigh and weakness in supporting weight. Quad injuries result from both small and large tears to the muscle. The best treatment for a pulled quad muscle begins with resting the injury to gauge the severity of your pain and discomfort. Contact your doctor if your pain doesn't alleviate with reasonable rest, ice and compression.
Rest
Resting your quad muscle from regular activities as well as sports activities will allow the muscle time to heal. Don't consider exercising your leg until the pain is gone.
Ice
Apply an ice pack to your thigh for 15 to 20 minutes four times a day for the first few days after your injury. Place a soft cloth between your leg and the ice for comfort. Regular application of ice will help reduce the swelling that is common with this kind of muscle injury.
Compression
Compression bandages such as Ace bandages or sleeves held limit swelling in the injury area. If you choose to bandage your quad muscle injury, make sure the bandage is loose enough to allow for proper circulation.
Elevation
Elevate your injury above your heart to reduce swelling. While it might seem like a difficult endeavor, try lying on the sofa with a few pillows stacked on the armrest. Elevation is particularly important in the first 24 hours after injury.
Stretching
Gentle stretches can help you return to activities faster after pulling a quad muscle. Begin stretching your quads when pain is gone to prepare for returning to your sport. Don't bounce or over-stretch but, instead, gently work the damaged muscle to encourage circulation and flexibility.
When to See the Doctor
If your pain level is high or if you see very little improvement within a week, consult your doctor for advanced treatment. While pulling a quad is a common sports injury, your medical professional can provide recommendations on anti-inflammatory drugs that might prove beneficial to your recovery. Your primary goal is to allow your body time to recover from the quad injury and prevent future injuries.
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