Frequently Asked Questions On Muscle Pain

Myalgia may result from infectious diseases, autoimmune diseases, parasitosis, joint pain (arthralgia), fever, or general ill feeling (malaise).

Commonly muscle pain is due to tension, stress, overuse and minor injuries. Other causes may include:

• Dermatomyositis
• Fibromyalgia
• Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
• Influenza (flu)
• Lupus
• Medications, especially the cholesterol medications known as statins
• Muscle cramp
• Repetitive strain injuries
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Sprains and strains, etc.

Muscle pains cause discomfort which can be reduced by undertaking the following steps:

• Resting the area that hurts.
• Taking an OTC pain reliever
• Applying an ice pack over the affected area to reduce pain and inflammation. Practicing stress-relieving activities and exercises such as yoga and meditation to relieve tension

Some general guidelines to prevent muscle pains:

• Stretching muscles before any physical activity and after workouts.
• Incorporatig a warm-up and a cooldown routine into all of your exercise sessions.
• Staying hydrated
• Regular exercise regime to help promote optimal muscle tone.
• Get up and stretch regularly if you sit at a desk most of the time or in an environment that puts you at risk for muscle strain or tension.