Management of acute muscle injuries: 195426
| Stage one: haemorrhage control |
| Rest/protection |
| Compression (24 h) |
| Water immersion or ice bags 30 to 60 min |
| Elevation |
| Re-evaluate at 24 h |
| Stage two: absorption of blood and exudate (following haemorrhage control) |
| Local heat (whirlpool bath, shortwave diathermy) |
| Massage (avoid stimulation of further bleeding) |
| Avoiding damaged area in the first 48 h |
| Never vigorous or painful, as this will prolong injury |
| Graduated exercises |
| Reduce swelling |
| Maintain tone and strength of the muscles |
| Maintenance of general fitness important |