A muscle ache (myalgia) can start with or sometimes be just a dull sensation in the affected area. Other times, it is an actual pain and soreness. The intensity of the pain varies; most are bearable and usually subsides after rest while others may require treatment. There is no one single cause of muscle aches and pain, but a common one is a prolonged or extended use including overuse. Muscle tissue can be found in almost every part of the body and so the discomfort as well.
Individuals who experience aches and pain are often able to identify the cause of their discomfort. There is no one single cause of muscle aches and pain, but a common one is a prolonged or extended use including overuse. Muscle tissue can be found in almost every part of the body and so the discomfort as well. In essence, it is caused by:
• Muscle tension in one or more areas of the body
• Overuse of muscle during physical activity
• Injury to the muscle from engaging in physically demanding work and/or exercise
Hence, a proper warm-up and cool down is always advised especially for those who engage in any form of sports – even at a recreational level. Muscle aches and pains can also be the result of a medical condition.
A medical condition can be responsible for the pain. Some of these are:
Fibromyalgia
Causes fatigue, widespread pain among other discomforts
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Causes extreme fatigue that does not improve with rest
Myofascial Pain Syndrome
A form of chronic pain disorder and symptoms include deep pain in muscles that do not improve over time and sleep or mood disturbances
Infections
Such as the likes of the flu or bacterial infections
Autoimmune Disorders
These include lupus, dermatomyositis, and polymyositis
The use of certain medications, such as statins may also be a cause.
Resting the affected areas is the first step. Other remedies that can be applied include:
• Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen (Advil)
• Applying ice to the affected area as this helps to relieve pain and reduce inflammation
Ice and heat should, preferably, be used interchangeably on the affected areas.
Other pain relief methods include gently stretching the muscles and most importantly, to avoid high-impact activities that will further aggravate the issue.
If the common self-pain relief method and remedy do not alleviate the discomfort, it is advised that you make an appointment with a doctor or myotherapist.
You should also do so when you experience muscle pain that:
• occurs along with a rash or after a tick bite,
• is accompanied by redness or swelling,
• occurs soon after a medication change, or
• occurs with an elevated temperature.
Muscle aches and pain can sometimes be alarming, particularly if there is no apparent cause.
Myotherapy is a form of physical therapy for musculoskeletal pain and related conditions. It is used in the treatment of issues caused by muscle or myofascia dysfunction. Myofascial tissue is a thin, strong and fibrous connective tissue that supports and protects the muscles and bones.