Should I use Voltaren on a pulled muscle?

Author: Ilene Moen  |  Last update: Sunday, May 18, 2025

What are Voltaren gels used for? For the relief of pain associated with recent (acute), localized muscle or joint injuries such as sprains, strains or sports injuries (e.g. sprain of ankle, strain of shoulder or back muscles). Rest may also be helpful to assist the relief of associated discomfort.

What is the best ointment for a pulled muscle?

Over-the-counter options include:
  • Capzasin-P: A capsaicin 0.1% topical analgesic cream.
  • Zostrix: A capsaicin 0.033% topical analgesic cream.
  • Zostrix Maximum Strength: A capsaicin 0.075% topical analgesic cream.

Can Voltaren tablets help pulled muscle?

Voltaren Rapid tablets and liquid capsules are suitable for relieving pain and reducing inflammation. They are useful for joint pain relief and muscle pain relief. They should be taken with a drink of water and swallowed whole, not crushed or chewed.

When should you not use Voltaren gel?

You should not use Voltaren Arthritis Pain gel if you have ever had asthma or a severe allergic reaction caused by aspirin, diclofenac (Cataflam, Voltaren), or another nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).

Is Voltarol good for pulled muscle?

Voltarol Back & Muscle Pain Relief 1.16% Gel can be used for the relief of body pain, inflammation and swelling in: Soft-tissue injuries: trauma of the tendons, ligaments, muscles and joints, due to sprains, strains, bruises and backache (e.g. in sports injuries).

How Long Does it Take Voltaren to Start Working?

Can you put Voltaren on a pulled muscle?

What are Voltaren gels used for? For the relief of pain associated with recent (acute), localized muscle or joint injuries such as sprains, strains or sports injuries (e.g. sprain of ankle, strain of shoulder or back muscles).

What is the best pain reliever for a pulled muscle?

“Naproxen [Aleve] and ibuprofen are better for inflammation and muscle strains. A bonus of Naproxen is you can take it twice a day versus every 4 to 6 hours like with acetaminophen. This can be more convenient for many people.”

What is the downside of Voltaren?

Upset stomach, nausea, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, gas, headache, drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Why should people over 65 not use Voltaren?

Tell your doctor right away if you get sunburned or have skin blisters/redness. Older adults may be at greater risk for stomach/intestinal bleeding, kidney problems, heart attack, and stroke while using this drug.

Why are you not supposed to use Voltaren on your back?

Now, you may be asking, “Why can't I use Voltaren gel on my back or shoulder?” This is because it hasn't been well-studied on these body areas. More research is needed to see if Voltaren gel is safe and effective for these uses.

What's the best muscle relaxer for a pulled muscle?

The best prescription muscle relaxants are baclofen, carisoprodol, methocarbamol, tizanidine, dantrolene, cyclobenzaprine, orphenadrine, chlorzoxazone, and metaxalone. Naproxen (Aleve) is one of the strongest OTC medications for muscle pain, cramps, and spasms.

Does Voltaren reduce inflammation or just pain?

Voltaren Gel® is a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that treats joint pain caused by arthritis. The medication in Voltaren Gel is diclofenac. It works by decreasing inflammation.

How do you treat a pulled muscle inflammation?

Use an ice pack or slush bath of ice and water for 15 to 20 minutes each time and repeat every two to three hours while you're awake for the first few days after the injury. Compression. To help stop swelling, compress the area with an elastic bandage until the swelling stops.

What not to do with a pulled muscle?

Gentle stretching to the area can be beneficial, but the key is to keep it gentle. Avoid any prolonged sitting, bending, heavy lifting, twisting, or driving - all of which can make the pain worse. Giving the area of pain a rest, at least for the next 24 hours, will most likely be beneficial.

What is better than Voltaren?

Of the OTC products discussed here, the OTC products with lidocaine are the best and most effective for nerve pain. Lidocaine is an anesthetic and works by blocking nerve conduction to numb the feeling of pain. This makes the lidocaine versions of Aspercreme, Icy Hot, and Bengay better for nerve pain than Voltaren.

What is the fastest way to heal pulled muscles?

Home treatment for a muscle strain includes: The RICE method. Rest, ice, compression and elevation can help relieve pain and inflammation during the first few days of your recovery. After the first few days, you can start moving it again.

When should you not use Voltaren?

Who Should Not Use Voltaren Gel? High blood pressure: Voltaren can increase blood pressure and make blood pressure more difficult to control in people with untreated or uncontrolled hypertension. Heart failure: Voltaren must be avoided in people with severe heart failure unless the benefits outweigh the risks.

What is the Voltaren controversy?

In May 2019 the Federal Court accepted admissions by Novartis Consumer Health Australasia Pty Ltd (Novartis) and GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare Australia Pty Ltd (GSK) that they made false or misleading representations in the marketing of Voltaren Osteo Gel and Voltaren Emulgel pain relief products.

Does Voltaren gel get into the bloodstream?

2-4 Assuming a 6% absorption rate, if 2g of 1% diclofenac sodium gel is applied (20 mg of diclofenac sodium), approximately 1.2 mg of diclofenac might enter the bloodstream. Likewise, if 4g of 1% diclofenac sodium is applied (40 mg diclofenac sodium), approximately 2.4 mg of diclofenac might enter the bloodstream.

What not to do while taking Voltaren?

Voltaren and alcohol

Studies show drinking alcohol while taking an NSAID increases the risk of stomach bleeding. For this reason, it's best to avoid alcohol while taking Voltaren. The National Kidney Foundation also recommends avoiding alcohol while taking NSAIDs due to the risk of kidney damage.

Why do doctors not like diclofenac?

Diclofenac tablets and capsules can cause an ulcer in your stomach if you take them for a long time or in large doses, or if you're older or in poor general health. If you have a stomach ulcer or have ever had one, you may not be able to take diclofenac tablets or capsules. Your doctor will prescribe another medicine.

Does Voltaren help healing?

It works by pooling diclofenac on the surface of the skin, the medicine then penetrates the underlying tissues, targeting the inflamed tissues (e.g. around the joint to relieve pain, reduce inflammation and speed recovery) to relieve pain, decrease swelling and support the recovery process.

What is the best rub for a pulled muscle?

Top picks for the best muscle rubs
  • Best overall: Penetrex Pain Relief Cream - See at Amazon.
  • Best for cooling relief: Biofreeze Pain Relief Gel Roll-On - See at Amazon.
  • Best for warming relief: Sombra Warm Therapy Pain Relieving Gel - See at Amazon.
  • Best hemp rub: Dr. Sayman's Wonder Rub - See at Amazon.

What do doctors prescribe for a pulled muscle?

Anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen (Tylenol) also help reduce pain and swelling. As the pain decreases, you can use heat on the muscle. Stretching and light exercises to bring blood to the injured area can also be useful.

Why won't my pulled muscle heal?

Their study found that, as we age, the lines of communication to the stem cells of our muscles deteriorate and, without the full instructions, it takes longer for injured muscles to heal. Even then, the repairs aren't as good.

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