I pulled my right quad muscle playing baseball and i took some ib profin to help with pain and swelling. and i iced my quad muscle as well but can i put heat on it as well like 20 minutes after im done icing it? or will putting heat on it make?

miss_icanhelp

Hii i am an occupational therapist and suggest that you use the R.I.C.E. method first. Rest, Icing, Compression, and Elevation. Drink anti inflammatory meds. Once activity is started again, ice the muscle after exercise to reduce any swelling. After applying the ice, wrap your thigh in an ACE bandage to keep it compressed. Once you are bale to use your leg without pain, you can begin a slow jogging program and avoid any sudden accelerations and sprints. Pay attention to signs of pain or increased tenderness, and reduce exercise if any develops. Proper stretching of the quadriceps is essential. Recovery typically occurs within two or three weeks.

Prevention
The way to prevent this injury is to strengthen the quadriceps muscles, warm up thoroughly before exercise and stretch regularly. Quad extensions, squats, biking and stair climbing are all worthwhile exercises for runners to use as cross training. Hope this helps. God bless....