Exercise is a vital part of any health and nutrition plan. If you don’t regularly work your body out, you could suffer from health problems even if you’re eating a healthy diet. Unfortunately, the more you exercise, the more likely you are to suffer a muscle and joint injury.

Of course, knowing your limits and exercising proper technique can help lower the risk of injury. However, the risk of suffering a muscle and joint injury will always be present no matter the precautions you take.

Fortunately, even if you have suffered a muscle or joint injury, there are steps you can take to ensure proper, natural healing. However, if the injury is severe or does not seem to be healing on its own, you should consult a medical professional.

Step One: Get Plenty of Rest

First, if you have suffered an injury, you need to take it easy. Even if that means interrupting your workout routine, it’s vital that you allow your body to rest up. Your body can recover from many injuries on its own but it needs time and rest in order to do so.

If you injure your leg, consider using a pair of crutches even if you can still walk on your own. Cut down on how much you walk as well. Likewise, if you pulled your back, refrain from any heavy lifting with your back. Point is, don’t use the injured muscles or joints.

Step Two: Hot and Cold Packs Can Provide Immediate Relief

If you have suffered an injury and the muscles or joints are swelling, bust out the ice pack. An ice pack can reduce swelling and provide temporary pain relief. Just make sure you’re careful as overexposure to cold surfaces can cause further injuries.

If your muscles are sore and strained, a warm compress can provide temporary relief. A soak in a warm bath or shower could also provide some relief. However, keep in mind that much of the relief will only be temporary.

Use Natural Recovery and Pain Treatments to Speed Things Up

So what should you do if you need more lasting pain relief, and rest & respite is proving not to be enough? There are a variety of natural treatments that you can use to give your body a hand.

For example, the combination of Clematidis, Achyranthis, and Puerariae may help relax sore muscles while also alleviating pain. Fortunately, you can pick up a natural muscle and joint pain relief cream containing all three and more.

Another great option is a natural muscle and joint healing patch that contains camphor and other natural herbal remedies. Patches may provide long-lasting pain relief, and are especially useful for tough to wrap areas, like your knees or elbows.

Point is, chemical drugs aren’t your only option. While they may be appropriate in some situations, a natural pain treatment may prove just as effective minus all the chemicals.