Stop activity and rest the leg
Elevate the leg above heart level
Apply a cold pack to the painful area for 15–20 minutes, repeat as needed
If pain is from stiffness or muscle tightness, use gentle heat for 15–20 minutes
Gently stretch the calf/hamstring (stop if pain worsens)
Avoid massage if there is swelling, redness, warmth, or sudden severe pain
Wear supportive footwear and avoid high-impact activity
Take ibuprofen or naproxen if you can safely use NSAIDs, following label directions
Take acetaminophen if you can’t use NSAIDs, following label directions
Stay hydrated and do light range-of-motion movements
If you suspect a cramp, gently stretch the affected muscle and flex the foot upward (calf cramps)
Consider topical pain relief (e.g., diclofenac gel) if appropriate
Seek urgent care immediately if you have one-sided leg swelling, redness, warmth, or sudden severe pain
Seek urgent care immediately if you have chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing blood, fainting, or rapid heartbeat
Seek urgent care immediately if you have numbness, weakness, loss of bladder/bowel control, or trouble walking
Seek urgent care immediately if you had a recent injury with inability to bear weight, deformity, or rapidly worsening pain