Best pain relief for sore muscles?!

Best pain relief for sore muscles?

I went for an intense hike on Sunday, now my calves are killing me and I'm having trouble up and down stairs. Even Tylenol and Aleve don't do anything. I want to do another shorter hike tomorrow and I'd like to not be in pain! I know about things like arnica & tiger balm creams, will try a soak later. I'm just looking for what people have found to work for them and what works the best of various treatments. (Teas, creams, herbal soaks, whatever.)

5 days ago
Please note: I tried Ibuprofen (Tylenol) and naxoprofen (Aleve) yesterday and this morning and neither worked! I'm thinking more of a rub or herbal soak?

Hi, I am a massage therapist. Maybe I can help.

First, I would not go hiking again until your calves feel better. When your body says "I hurt, I need rest", its best to listen to it otherwise you can hurt yourself further. You can do a little mild exercising to move out the lactic acid (like easy walking, gently stretching out the calif muscles).

Also, try using a massage lotion or gel that contains arnica (very good for sore muscles) and massage your calves somewhat vigorously, with some pumping actions on the calf muscles, this will also help move out lactic acid,

Additionally and equally as important, applying ice to them for the next 24 hours would also further reduce inflammation and pain. After the first 24, if inflammation seems reduced, you can switch to using heat (I love warm baths with epsom salts, or jacuzzis).

You'll be fine!