Thigh pain, also known scientifically as myalgia of the thigh, is a muscle pain that can affect the front, back or sides of the thigh that can be caused by excessive physical activity or a direct hit on the spot. Excessive training without the necessary rest is one of the main causes of myalgia, but this change can also develop due to physical tiredness, contracture of the thigh.
Usually this pain in the thigh disappears without treatment, only with rest, but when the region becomes bruised, there is a purple area or when it becomes very hard, you may need to do physical therapy to solve the problem and be able to perform the thigh stretch, the exercises and activities of daily living.
What can be thigh pain
The main symptom of myalgia is muscle pain in the thigh, which can be graded from 0 to 10, with zero being painless and 10 being unbearable pain. Knowing how to identify the level of pain is important to assess the need and progression of treatment.
In addition to the pain located in the thigh, it is common to have difficulty walking and performing physical exercises and the region may be swollen and purple, in case of a blow.
The diagnosis of myalgia in the thigh can be made by observing the aforementioned symptoms, but to confirm that it is not another injury such as a fracture, strain or muscle strain, the doctor may order tests, such as x-ray and ultrasound of the thigh, although physical therapy can begin even before the test results.
Thigh pain: what to do
The treatment for thigh pain depends on what caused the pain. In case of a direct hit it is recommended to place an ice pack on the area for 15 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day, for the first 48 hours after the incident. In addition, it is recommended:
- Departure from training and rest with the leg in a horizontal position or tilted upwards, as when lying on the sofa with a pillow under the heel; Stretching must be passive and therefore must be supported by another person; After the first 48 hours, the use of ice should be replaced by a heated compress, also for 20 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day. In physiotherapy, equipment such as voltage, ultrasound and galvanic current can be used, as indicated by the physiotherapist.
Stretching and muscle strengthening exercises must also be prescribed in person, because each person needs a specific training. However, strengthening the muscles when there is pain relief with squats, on an unstable platform, going up and down steps and using the exercise bike can be indicated.
Anti-inflammatory ointments such as diclofenac can be applied twice a day for pain relief, with a gentle local massage until the product is completely absorbed by the skin. Taking a warm bath and letting the jet of water fall over the painful area also helps to relieve muscle pain, as well as a gentle massage.
If you are unsure about when to use ice or heat in different situations, watch the following video:
