A person who experiences a muscle strain in the thigh will frequently describe a popping or snapping sensation as the muscle tears. Pain is sudden and may be severe. The area around the injury may be tender to the touch, with visible bruising if blood vessels are also broken.

How long does it take for a pulled muscle to heal in your leg?

Recovery time depends on the severity of the injury. For a mild strain, you may be able to return to normal activities within three to six weeks with basic home care. For more severe strains, recovery can take several months. In severe cases, surgical repair and physical therapy may be necessary.

How do you treat a pulled muscle in your leg?

Treatment

  1. Rest. Avoid activities that cause pain, swelling or discomfort.
  2. Ice. Even if you’re seeking medical help, ice the area immediately.
  3. Compression. To help stop swelling, compress the area with an elastic bandage until the swelling stops.
  4. Elevation.

How long does a pulled leg muscle hurt?

In total, it usually takes up to three days for a pulled calf muscle to start feeling better. But a full recovery may take up to six weeks, according to Oxford University Hospitals. Severe swelling can make any pain and discomfort last a bit longer.

Can you walk with a muscle strain?

For mild and moderate muscle strains, you should rest your muscles for about 2 days. However, if you have a severe muscle strain, you should rest for 10 to 14 days. You may need to use crutches to walk if your muscle strain is in your legs or lower body.

How do you know if you’ve pulled a muscle?

Symptoms of a pulled muscle include:

  1. Bruising, swelling or redness at the injury site.
  2. Difficulty using the affected muscle.
  3. Muscle weakness.
  4. Sudden pain when using the affected muscle.
  5. Pain when the muscle is at rest.

What is the fastest way to heal a pulled muscle?

Your doctor may recommend the following at-home treatments:

  1. Rest. Rest the muscle for a few days or until your doctor gives you the okay.
  2. Ice. Apply ice to the injury for 20 minutes each hour you’re awake.
  3. Compression. Wrapping the muscle with an elastic bandage can help bring down swelling.
  4. Elevation.
  5. Medication.
  6. Heat.

What is the difference between a strain and a pulled muscle?

Although a muscle strain is different from a muscle tear, many people get these injuries confused. A strain is an injury that involves a muscle or tendon being overstretched. Your doctor may also call the injury a pulled tendon or muscle pull. (A tendon is the cord of tissue that attaches a muscle to a bone.)