Final answer:
No, vigorous massage should not be used to treat a muscle contusion. Instead, follow the PRICE method: protection, rest, ice, compression, and elevation.
Step-by-step explanation:
No, vigorous massage should not be used to treat a muscle contusion. Massage can increase blood flow to the injured area, which can actually worsen the swelling and pain. Instead, the treatment for a muscle contusion involves the PRICE method: protection, rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Applying soft padding, resting the muscle, applying ice, using a stretchy bandage for compression, and keeping the strained muscle elevated can help accelerate healing and reduce further injury.