Effective Natural Remedies for Muscle Health and Recovery

Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by Mama to Many (Tennessee) on 05/13/2024
★★★★★

I slept funny last night and twanged my neck. It was bad when I woke up and got worse as the day went on. I resorted to ibuprofen and it just got worse. I finally took my own medicine (what my kids know I would tell them to do) and did a vinegar wrap. I put straight apple cider vinegar on a paper towel, applied it to the area of pain, and covered it with cling wrap. I put a warm rice sock over that. Within a couple of hours my pain is a lot less and mobility is increasing. I smell like a salad, but I feel better. :)

~Mama to Many~

Apple Cider Vinegar and Baking Soda

Posted by Kermit (Austin Tx) on 07/01/2017
★★★★★

I have taken the ACV Baking Soda treatment. I was told this by my acupuncturist for my muscle pain. I had started a walking program but I was experiencing muscle pain when I sit too long or stand. It has helped that but it has also kept my weight down. Since not be able to walk like I was. I am going to start back walking or some form of exercise 30 minutes a day. I am glad taking 1 month off has not made me gain any of the weight back.

Hydration

Posted by Michael (New Zealand) on 07/20/2016
★★★★★

Dear Editor, In your section of advice for those suffering from muscle issues such as muscle aches, pains and strains, I think you unfortunately omited to mention the absolute necessity for adequate hydration (unless I misssed it). This is apparently so important for the proper functioning of muscles, that mention of this fact should surely be included in your initial advice section. Thank you.

Mustard

Posted by Diane (Rhode Island, US) on 08/15/2014
★★★★★

Try taking 1 tsp or 2 of yellow mustard for the knotted muscle, it helped mine.

Avoid Statins

Posted by Marsh57 (Co) on 07/28/2018

The VA nursing home doctor put our 88 yr old Dad on statins. I can't help but believe they caused jaundice, that ultimately resulted in his demise. Cause? Liver cancer that traveled onward. Still breaks my heart that I listened to that doctor while foregoing my intuition.

Avoid Statins

Posted by Marsh (Colo) on 05/21/2022

You're 100% right. He was ready to go on, departing on his own terms... but the negligence you mention is criminal.

Puncture Wound

Posted by Heather (Nz) on 09/17/2018

Try bentonite clay.

Magnesium

Posted by Sheila (San Diego, Ca) on 08/27/2011
★★★★★

In the past I've had the same pain in my upperback where my shoulder blade is on the leftside. I thought it was from exercising or over stretching, now I believe that the majority of those painful times are related to lack of Mg, especially after last night.

Last night, I felt in serious pain in the same spot. ACV hadn't worked -- thinking I had a potassium deficiency and possibly lactic acid building at the spot. So after much whimpering from the pain and sharp twinges and tiredness dealing with it, I logged onto Earthclinic to look up muscle tension. Scoliosis and Mg popped up from my search. I don't have scoliosis, but I decided to give Mg a try.

It worked! This morning I woke up with only a mild ache, and turning my head to look over my shoulder I only feel a bit of soreness, not the painful twinges nor tension I was feeling for most of the week or last night.

This is what I used last night, before bed:

1 capsule Magnesium Citrate 140 mg

1 capsule Vit B6 Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate 33. 8 mg

Both purchased from FoodScience of Vermont

and then after an hour or so,

1 teaspoon of Magnesium Chloride/Acetate liquid 133mg, diluted in 8 ozs of purified water

(I've taken the Mg Chl/Ace liquid before, for a skin reaction, so I knew it was going to make me sleepy.)

After eating breakfast this morning, I took another B6 capsule and this time 2 Mg Citrate capsules. I'll reserve the Mg Chl/Ace liquid for use at bedtime. It's afternoon now, and my back is feeling almost 100%. There's only a trace of soreness now.

Word of Caution: Loose stools can/will occur from taking Magnesium.

Posted by Shary (Centennial, Co) on 12/21/2010
★★★★★

About a year ago, a therapist suggested vitamin D for my chronic, nonspecific musculoskeletal pain. She recommended 4,000 IU of vitamin D3 daily. I got a little better but not much, and didn't associate it with vitamin D supplementation at the time. Then about a month ago I heard about the Vitamin D Council, a non-profit group of physicians and research scientists, and I went on their website.

Knowing from a recent blood test that I am somewhat deficient in vitamin D, and based on what I was reading, I immediately began taking 8,000 IU of D3, and what an improvement!

In just a few weeks I am almost completely pain-free in the neck, shoulders, hips and knees. I don't believe it is a coincidence because I've been dealing with muscle pain for 6 years now. I will drop back to the Council's recommended dosage in the next few months, at which time I can get some of my vitamin D from the sun.

If there really is a magic bullet, it could very well be vitamin D. It helps just about every aspect of the human body. If you don't spend much time outside, are in the habit of slathering on sunscreen, or if you live north of 35 degrees latitude, you are probably low on D. Please be aware that although this research appears to be solid, and I know for certain it has helped me, it isn't yet mainstream and differs considerably from government recommendations. It is important to have your vitamin D level checked so you have some idea of how much you need. It's also important to know that vitamin D supplements must be D3, which is cholecalciferol, the same thing our bodies make from sunshine.

Tennis Ball Massage

Posted by Regulator555 (Grand Rapids, Mi, Usa) on 06/03/2010
★★★★★

Muscle Aches - massage

When you need a back rub, and no one is willing, you can give yourself a decent one. Put a tennis ball in a long sock, place it on your back and hold the other end. Then, lean against a wall and move around. Let the ball do the work.

Magnesium

Posted by LuAnn (Rapid City, SD) on 12/06/2008
★★★★★

Colloidal Silver Wow, I tried putting the colloidal silver in a nazal spary bottle and felt almost immediate relief of my headache. I would like to comment on the web site. WOW! Lots of information here. Will visit very often.

For those of you suffering from spasms and muscle aches I found that Magnesium 400 mg and Malic Acid 600 mg 3x per day last dose before bed is most beneficial.

I am in the belief that my FMS symptoms and the chronic fatigue were a combination brought on by a severe systemic candidiasis condition. Suppliments along with the diet really made a difference for me.

I am going to take the suggestion to return back to meat and vegetable diet again. There was so much information that I couldn't quite absorb all at once. What a wonderful website!+

Multiple Remedies

Posted by Sandy (Bangalore, India) on 10/07/2008

Muscle ache: muscles can ache if the body is dehydrated. Having 2-3 litres of PURE water everyday helps immensely. Also, eat a couple of bananas daily.

Joint pain: ensure you eat plenty of good oils like coconut oil, olive oil etc to lubricate the joints. This helps reducing joint ache. Also, simple yogic poses can help immensely.

Multiple Remedies

Posted by Bessie (Calgary, Alberta, Canada) on 10/07/2008

In response to Patsy from Moncton, NB: you might want to have your thyroid checked. I suffered from all sorts of muscle and joint pain, depression, restless legs, insomnia, no energy - even after I tried a wide variety of herbs, vitamins, exercises, etc. When your thyroid isn't working properly, your body won't work properly. Hypothyroidism (under-active thyroid) is extremely common. Unfortunately, most doctors rely only on lab test results (and it's debatable if they are even using the correct tests). Visit a naturopath or doctor with an interest in wholistic medicine. Also, check the library for books about the thyroid. Good luck!

Avoid Statins

Posted by Bja (Oklahoma) on 07/02/2015
★★★★★

I'm nearing 60 and after having taken a statin for several years, about a year ago I began having awful muscle pain that, even after 4 mos. off the drug, pain persists. I am going to try and use Apple Cider Vinegar (with the mother, of course! ) and see if I feel any better. I'll keep you posted!

Muscle Stiffness Remedies

Posted by Ed2010 (Canada) on 10/06/2013
★★★★★

Acidic body can cause muscle stiffness or can be fibromyalgia. Inactive muscle can cause muscle stiffness as well.

Start with a simple cure. Take Ted's Alkalizing formula 3 times a day. Search for Ted's Alkalizing formula in EC.

Jog or walk for 15 minutes everyday.

Good Health.

Muscle Stiffness Remedies

Posted by Littlewing (Ma, Usa) on 10/06/2013
★★★★★

If it is indeed muscle problems, I would highly suggest magnesium oil. It cured my frozen shoulder and I use for my lower back when it's in spasm, it's a lifesaver. Sometimes I apply coconut oil on top of it, they're a great combo. Arnica is good for muscle soreness as well. As long as you've been checked out and it's not something internal, like kidney issues, etc. Do you have a chiropractor you could go to? They could give you a better answer than a regular GP probably. Check out the muscle soreness page here on earth clinic, lots of info there.

https://www.earthclinic.com/cures/muscle_issues.html

Good luck.

Pulled Muscle Remedies

Posted by Sp (Wb, Nj) on 09/07/2013
★★★★★

I would think a chiropractor would help. Here is an exercise that is simple, gentle and helps me with all sorts of back/muscle pains. Especially the muscle tension I get at my shoulders.

Lie flat on your back, on the bed is okay, no pillow under your head. Put your arms straight out at your sides. (You're making a T.) Then bring your knees up and flop them over to one side and turn your head to the opposite side. Do some deep breathing. About 4 deep slow breaths in and out. Then bring your head and knees back to the center and swith them to their opposite sides. Again, deep breaths. Do this a few times.

Good luck.

Pulled Muscle Remedies

Posted by Elaine (Ky) on 09/07/2013
★★★★★

If you could find a good chiropractor, that may help.

Also, Raw Apple Cider Vinegar poured onto a cloth and covering the area with it (then cover with plastic and a towel) is also great for this type of thing. You could do this for an hour or two while watching TV or do this overnight. Try this daily for a week if needed.

Turmeric - 1/2 -1 t. twice a day is also a great anti-inflammatory and may help this, too.

Pulled Muscle Remedies

Posted by Carly (Wa, Usa) on 09/07/2013
★★★★★

I have had a bad upper back for years. Yes, the chiropractor can help. If you pull a muscle, and keep over using it you can send it into spasm, and just throw everything out of whack.

I also have a foam roller I use. They look like large foam "Water weenies" that kids use in pools, but the foam roller is much sturdier. You lay it on the floor and then roll on top of it.... It is excellent for self back massage. There are videos on the web showing how to use them. I love mine, it only cost around twenty dollars if I remember correctly.

Another thing, but much more expensive, is an inversion table. Cost anywhere from a couple hundred on up for a decent one.... Maybe a person could find one on Craigslist more cheaply though. They are excellent for stretching also. Again, more info on inversion tables online also. YouTube is usually a good source for videos.

And it goes without saying.... a decent massage therapist can do wonders if you have good insurance that will cover it.

I know how miserable a bad upper back / muscle spasm can be. I wish you very good luck in getting your back healthy again! :-)

Pulled Muscle Remedies

Posted by Spencer (Usa) on 07/15/2014

Inversion tables can be very expensive and many times you buy one without actually being able to try it out. When I was looking for an inversion table I read a lots of reviews as well as lot about inversion therapy and was able to find the table that was the best fit for me.

Sarcopenia Remedies

Posted by Timh (Ky, Usa) on 08/29/2013 2048 posts

@111laker: from reading the wiki page here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarcopenia, it appears a problem in immune and hormone function among other factors. With all these major and minor body system disruptions; there is obviously some underlying issues which are not addressed by professionals.

For immediate relief, supplement Whey Protein w/ Added Glutamine, as well as Creatine Monohydrate to restore muscle function. Also supplement DHEA hormone (50mg daily) as well as Testosterone boosting herbs like Maca, Avena Sativa, Horney Goat Weed, Tribulus Terrestris, Mucuna Pruriens, Tongkat Ali; and the amino D-Aspartic Acid.

To treat the underlying issues try detoxification remedies here on E.C.

Sarcopenia Remedies

Posted by Debbie (Australia ) on 08/29/2013

I would not recommend whey protein as it has bad additives in it. You are better off finding a herbal solution. Something natural from nature. Research herbs. Anything man made is synthetic. Rather than taking extracts take the real thing. Wheatgrass juice, alfalfa (leaves, juice, tea), carrot juice. Comfrey leaves and juices (or tea) is one of the best things to take. Find some local comfrey (and research it). Nettle is very good for you in a tea or leaf (slightly steamed). All disease is caused by vitamin and mineral deficiencies in the body. Research herb remedies but not man made herbal supplements. I would never take synthetic supplements again.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by Susan (Phoenix, Arizona) on 09/23/2012
★★★★★

I can't thank you enough for the ACV cure for my sore muscle! I spent a miserable night with a pulled muscle in my shoulder, and like you, tried everything to fix it. After reading your post, I went immediately to my organic ACV and soaked a paper towel with it, stuck it on my skin, and the pain disappeared within 2 minutes! God Bless you for posting this!

Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by Monique (Virginia Beach, Usa) on 02/04/2012
★★★★★

Hey, I have to say the ACV worked for muscle ache. I had a complete body massage earlier today. I was sore when I woke up to get a glass of water and then I stopped to check this site for sore muscles. I drank 1 tablespoon of Acv and 1/2 c water- in 2 minutes my soreness was gone. Thank you EC

Puncture Wound

Posted by Oscar (Syracuse, New York) on 12/04/2011

Why not have that simple surgery and have that nail removed ? Leaving the nail embedded could lead to a dangerous infection. I have had pieces of metal embedded in me for different reasons. Get the nail removed. Do not play around with this. It sounds like the sort of injury that could be easily dealt with in a doctors office without the need for hospitalization. How about a little common sense here....Oscar

Puncture Wound

Posted by Timh (Louisville, Ky) on 12/04/2011 2048 posts

Ss, if you could find a magnet powerful enough it would pull that nail directly out. A warms sea salt pack would help if neccessary.

Puncture Wound

Posted by M (Nyc, Ny) on 12/04/2011

I once had a toothpick go through my sock and broke off inside the bottom of my foot as I stepped down on it. Swelling/pain/had to walk on my toes of that foot.... Nothing to grab onto to get it out. I went to a doctor, afraid that he was going to slice my foot open. He said, either your body will accept it or reject it. After working on it for a few days... Gently sqeezing the swollen area... it popped out and healed fine.

Puncture Wound

Posted by Lisa (AL) on 11/09/2023

Magnet.

Magnesium

Posted by Sheila (San Diego, Ca) on 08/29/2011

Update -- The magnesium and B6 helped relieve the sharp pain, but I still have pain. I've stopped taking the magnesium for my trapezius pain, and am now utilizing stretching. I must have done something exercising that I didn't realize would cause a problem.

I'm also scheduling a back massage this week to specifically target the trapezius.

Note: I mistakenly took magnesium chloride too early, before bedtime the other night. It made me so sleepy, but I didn't want to sleep yet, so I fought it and my head and eyes started to throb. I wouldn't advise taking Mg chloride unless you're absolutely ready for bed.

Homemade Salve

Posted by Vicci (Phoenix) on 07/05/2014

On the alcohol absolute? Can you just use regular alcohol like you use making tincture? thanks the camphor and clove will numb it, used to use as anestesia at the dentist, lol

Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by Donna (Coconut Creek, Florida) on 07/11/2010
★★★★★

RECENTLY I PULLED A MUSCLE IN MY UPPER ARM. THE PAIN WAS REALLY TERRIBLE. I TRIED ICE PACKS, IBUPROFEN, PAIN OINTMENT. NOTHING WORKED. I SOAKED A PAPER TOWEL WITH APPLE CIDER VINEGAR AND APPLIED IT TO THE AREA. THE PAIN WAS GONE ALMOST INSTANTLY. I COULDN'T BELIEVE IT. IT WAS LIKE A MIRACLE.

Rice in a Sock

Posted by Ellienc (Reidsville, North Carolina, Usa) on 01/24/2010
★★★★★

These are wonderful! I use combinations of dried herbs (lavender particulary) in my rice packs. Just after a minute or two in the microwave, the comfort is immediate. Great idea about the cotton balls and the eo's! Will try that too!

Rice in a Sock

Posted by Sharon (Sparks, Nv Usa) on 04/27/2010

Corn bags are my new favorite. You need to buy feed corn (it's dried out) and when you sew your bag, leave a little elbow room in it so you can adjust to fit the area you're treating. I like them better than rice bags. Same thing...heat in microwave, or chill in freezer.

Multiple Remedies

Posted by Patsy (Moncton, NB. Canada) on 10/06/2008
★☆☆☆☆

Ted always writes about magnesium supplements and how great they are for almost everything. I have and still take 300mg of magnesium citrate 5 days a week but I see no benefits what so ever. I still suffer from muscle aches at night, I still have joint pain on my fingers and knees. I keep waking up all night and I have to nap every day. I also take a b 50-complex 1 or 2 daily and vit D3 2000-5000mg/day, folic acid 1mg a day, vit C 500mg/day. None of these help. I have also tried melatonin which made me more drowzy all day, sunlight therapy helped with joint pain and I still napped during the day but it's now October and cold. I sometimes do the baking soda for a few days but that only helps with my indigestion and it might give me bacterial vaginosis which I already have a problem controlling. I am feeling depressed b/c I can't find the right solution.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by TAN KOON PENG (SINGAPORE) on 06/22/2008
★★★★★

To relieve sore muscles from exercise soak in a warm tub with about 2 cups of vinegar poured into the water.. It will help with the soreness tremendously...Its actually best if you can soak with the vinegar after strenuous excercise, (before the soreness sets in), BUT, it will still help alleviate some of the soreness that is already there and you wil feel better soon.

Strawberry tea is good for muscle cramping and tightening. Some people like the tea leaves green but it tastes like straw.

Magnesium Oil

Posted by Laurie (Texas) on 08/29/2019

I have this strange condition that occurs when I repeatedly use my muscles they stiffen and won't relax. For example if I walk a lot or stand all day my calf muscles tighten up and will remain hard for days. When this goes on it pulls on my tendons causing pain. I am 58 and this has been going on for over 10 years. It has caused my to back off of exercise for fear of stiff and sometimes painful muscles. Does anyone have natural remedy suggestions that might help?

Magnesium Oil

Posted by Art (California) on 08/29/2019 2325 posts
★★★★★

Laurie from Texas,

One simple and inexpensive remedy you can try is magnesium chloride oil applied to your calves and actually both legs, butt and back to see if the mag oil will allow that muscle group to relax and relieve pressure on your spine.

Here is a link to one basic inexpensive product that will be enough for you to test it and see if it helpful or not :

https://amzn.to/2Zwcp5v

Art