Almost everyone will experience a sore muscle at some point – in fact, general muscle aches and pains can be considered normal when you start a new activity or increase the intensity or duration of exercise. Some common causes of muscle pain may include tension, stress, overuse, and minor injuries.
What are some common types of Muscle Aches?
Strains: a stretching or tearing of a tendon (the cord of tissue that connects muscles to bone) or to the muscle itself.
Sprains: a stretching or tearing of a ligament (the band of tissue that connects two bones at a joint).
Muscle cramps: a sudden, painful, involuntary contraction of a muscle.
How Can I Treat Strains, Sprains & Muscle Cramps?
Take an over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen Advil Muscle & Joint which can help reduce pain and pain of inflammation from strains and sprains.
Rest the injured area and apply cold for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, and repeat every two to three hours while you're awake for the first few days after the injury.
First aid for sprains involves RICE: rest, ice, compression, and elevation.
Stretch or massage the affected muscle cramp and drink enough fluids to keep your body hydrated. If the cramps persist, apply a hot or cold compress for 15 to 20 minutes, three or four times a day. Do not continue to exercise with a muscle cramp, because this can lead to further injury.
Here are some lifestyle tips to help prevent muscle aches & pains:
Avoid Repetitive Motions: If your job puts you at risk for injury from repetitive motions, switch tasks every hour so you use a different set of muscles.
Adjust your diet: Dehydration (lack of fluids) can also lead to muscle pain, so be sure to drink enough water to keep your body functioning properly. Not getting enough vitamin D can also cause muscle pain and weakness, because this vitamin plays a very important role in ensuring that muscles function properly.
Exercise & Stretching: If you engage in sports or athletic activities, warming up and cooling down properly can reduce your risk of injury. Take time to stretch so your muscles can warm up before any physical activity.
For more information about muscle aches and pains, explore other articles on our muscle and joint pain section of our website.
