How to Relieve a Leg Ache

Many people have occasional leg aches which are often caused by strain or over use. However chronic leg aches can also be a symptom of a more serious problem which will require medical attention. For the occasional leg ache there are some things that you can do at home to help relive the pain.

Instructions

1. Identify the cause of the pain. If you know that you did an extra hour at the gym today or you twisted your leg while unloading groceries then you know the pain you are feeling is probably muscular and temporary. On the other hand if you can not identify the cause or if the pain has been chronic then you need to see a doctor.

2. Apply ice to the area of the leg that hurts. Use an ice pack or put ice cubes into a clean towel and hold the ice on the leg for twenty minutes at a time. Repeat every two hours until you get relief from the pain.

3. Try heat, like an electric heating pad, which can also be helpful for getting relief from a leg ache. You can also use a hot water bottle or an over the counter heat rub. Don't use a heat rub at the same time as a heating pad or bottle. This can cause burns. You might want to alternate the heat and ice.

4. Massage the aching leg. Massage can not only provide pain relief, but it will also help blood to move to the area which will speed up the healing process of the injured muscle.

5. Take an over the counter pain relief medication. Ibuprofen and Naproxen are good for relief of leg aches. Be sure to follow package directions and never take more than the recommended dose.