Have your aching muscles become the bane of your existence?
You are not alone.
Almost everyone suffers from some muscle spasm or ache at some point in their life.
Most muscle pain gradually disappears, but some forms of muscle pain persist for months, even years.
There are 4 common places where muscle pain is found.
These include the back, neck, legs and hands.
Muscle pain may also involve ligaments, tendons and the soft tissue connecting muscles, bones, and organs.
UNDERLYING CAUSES OF MUSCLE PAIN
The most common cause of muscle pain is stress or tension.
Minor injuries and overuse also contribute to muscle pain.
Other common causes of muscle pain include:
- Dehydration
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- A variety of medications
- Fibromyalgia
- Lupus
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Cramps
- Sprains and strains
- Viral infections
- Infection or illness
If your muscle pain is due to cramps, please read Prevent Leg Cramps In 3 Simple Steps.
Complications
Muscle pain could also be a sign of a medical emergency.
Seek medical attention if you experience any of the below symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing
- Stiffness in the neck area
- Weak muscles
- Fever
Taking Care Of Muscle Pain
Muscle pain during activity could be a sign of a strained or “pulled” muscle.
These types of injuries usually respond well to “R.I.C.E.” therapy:
Rest
Take a break from your normal activities.
Ice
Place an ice pack on the sore area for 15 to 20 minutes three times a day.
Compression
Use a compression bandage to reduce swelling.
Elevation
Elevate your foot to help reduce swelling.
Experts agree that ice is more beneficial for immediate relief.
Ensure to ice your injury right after the pain begins, as this helps to reduce inflammation and pain.
Yoga and meditation are also excellent ways to help relax stressed muscles.
Muscle aches from overuse or other conditions will often respond well to massage therapy.
See a doctor if you have muscle pain for longer than a week or you notice any signs of infection.
Keep in mind that it is completely normal to have sore muscles after you work out, play sports, or even do housework.
How To Prevent Muscle Pain
You could avoid muscle pain altogether by following a few simple rules.
- Stretch before and after any physical activity.
- Ease in to exercise.
- Drink plenty of fluids before, during and after exercise.
- If you work in the same position every day, be sure to stretch every hour or so.
According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), people who work at a desk all day should make a conscious 
effort to get up to stretch and move around at least every 60 minutes.
Listen to your body.
You will know if you are pushing it too far.
Remember to also feed your body well and make sure it gets enough vitamins and minerals and other nutrients.
For more information on preventing pain, please read Long-Term Treatment For Back Pain.
