Version July 2025
Please read the Disclaimer at the end of this page.
What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").
What should I know? —
You came to the ED for a leg muscle strain, also called a "pulled muscle." This is when 1 of the muscles in the leg gets stretched too much or too quickly, or works too hard. This sometimes makes the muscle tear.
A leg muscle strain can happen during exercise or from an accident. You might have pain, tightness, swelling, or bruising.
Your leg muscle strain will likely get better on its own within a few weeks. But it depends on how bad your strain is, as well as your age and overall health.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also do the following:
●Call your regular doctor and tell them you were in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment if you were told to.
●Take non-prescription medicines to relieve pain, if needed. Examples include acetaminophen (sample brand name: Tylenol), ibuprofen (sample brand names: Advil, Motrin), and naproxen (sample brand name: Aleve).
●Rest your leg muscles, and avoid movements or activities that cause pain.
●Ice can help with pain and swelling. Put a cold gel pack, bag of ice, or bag of frozen vegetables on the painful area every 1 to 2 hours, for 15 minutes each time. Put a thin towel between the ice (or other cold object) and your skin. Ice for at least 6 hours after your injury. It might help to ice longer, even up to 2 days.
●Wrap your leg muscle with an elastic bandage or other type of wrap, or wear compression shorts. These can help support your muscles.
●Once the pain and swelling improve and your doctor says it's OK, you can slowly start to stretch your leg muscles. You might need to work with a physical therapist (exercise expert).
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if:
●Your leg is numb, weak, or tingly.
●You cannot walk because of pain.
●You have new or worsening symptoms.
