Muscle pain

MUSCLE PAIN (MYALGIA)

Muscle pain, or myalgia, is common and often due to prolonged physical activities, exercises, sprains, or strains. It can also be a sign of disease conditions affecting the whole body. The pain is experienced differently as cramping, aching, stabbing, or burning, can range from mild to severe, and may limit movements. It may be limited to a small part or can involve the whole body.

CAUSES

• Muscle tension
• Overuse of muscles
• Injury to muscles

Some medical conditions causing muscle pain are:

• Fibromyalgia (causing widespread muscle pain)
• Infections like flu, malaria
• Myofascial pain syndrome
• Autoimmune disorders like Lupus
• Hypokalemia (potassium deficiency)
• Side effects of certain medications or drugs

MANAGEMENT

Proper rest, elevating the affected area, massage, and applying compresses can reduce the pain. Severe pain associated with symptoms like fever, breathlessness, swelling, redness, rashes, etc., should be properly treated after identifying the cause.

PREVENTION

Muscle pain may be prevented to a great extent by:

• Regular exercise
• Stretching and warming up before exercise
• Proper nutrition and regular water intake
• Taking regular breaks during prolonged physical activities