Muscle pain is most frequently related to
tension, overuse of muscles, or muscle injury from exercise or work that is
physically demanding. In these
situations, the pain tends to involve specific muscles and starts during or
just after the activity. It is usually
obvious which activity is causing the pain.
Muscle pain also can be a sign of conditions
affecting your whole body, like some infections including flu and disorders
that affect connective tissues throughout the body such as lupus
erythematosus. One common cause of
muscle aches and pain is fibromyalgia, a condition that includes tenderness in
your muscles and surrounding soft tissues, sleep difficulties, fatigue and
headaches. Unfortunately, there is no
known fibromyalgia treatment because the disorder itself is not clear
and a phenomenon to science. But its
signs and symptoms can be treated and alleviated. Fibromyalgia and muscle aches due to overuse
often respond well to massage. Gentle
stretching exercises after a long rest period are also helpful. For muscle pain from injury, rest that body
part and take over the counter acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Apply ice for the first 24 to 72 hours of an
injury to reduce pain and inflammation. After that, heat often feels more
soothing. Regular exercise can help
restore proper muscle tone. Walking,
cycling, and swimming are good aerobic activities to try. A physical therapist
can teach you stretching, toning, and aerobic exercises to feel better and stay
pain-free. Begin slowly and increase
workouts gradually. Avoid high impact
aerobic activities and weight lifting when injured or while in pain.
