Myalgia, commonly known as muscle aches or pain, is a common condition that describes soreness or aching in the muscles. Almost everyone has experienced some form of muscle ache or pain, especially after a new exercise. As there are muscles all throughout the body, muscle aches and pain can occur anywhere, depending on the cause.[1]
The most common cause of muscle pain is overuse, which can occur after a new or intense exercise, prolonged periods of sitting, or muscle strains.[2] The symptoms are usually localised to the affected area, and the pain can range from mild to severe depending on what is affected.
However, muscle pain can have causes related to medical conditions, such as infections, autoimmune disorders, or certain medications.
What are the symptoms of muscle aches (myalgia)?
The symptoms of muscle aches vary from person to person. Common symptoms include:
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Aching or random sharp pain in a muscle or muscle group
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Muscle cramps
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Joint pain
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Muscle spasms
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Reduced range of motion
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Difficulty with everyday activities, such as walking or shifting positions.
What causes muscle aches?
People of any age can experience muscle aches and pain aka myalgia. Often the cause of the symptoms can be linked to a recent activity. This may include:
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Trying a new exercise
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Completing high intensity exercise
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Suddenly increasing exercise or movement
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Overusing a certain muscle or muscle group
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Skipping the warm-up before or cool-down after exercise.
Muscle aches caused by these activities usually resolve within 24-48 hours, sometimes without any specific treatment or with simple treatment strategies.
However, not all muscles aches and pains have simple causes. Muscle aches and pain can also be caused by an underlying medical issue. Medical conditions that can cause myalgia include:
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Infections, such as the flu
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Infectious diseases, such as polio
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Fibromyalgia, a chronic pain disorder
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Myofascial pain syndrome
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Lack of sleep
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Chronic fatigue syndrome
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Autoimmune disorders, including lupus, polymyositis, or myositis
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Certain medications, such as statins or illicit drugs
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Thyroid disorders, such hypo- or hyperthyroidism
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Hypokalaemia (low levels of potassium).
How are muscle aches and pain diagnosed?
Sometimes muscle aches do not require medical input. However, a health practitioner can determine the cause of the muscle aches and pain and rule out any serious underlying medical conditions by taking a detailed history and performing a physical examination.
Muscle aches and pain can indicate a more serious underlying medical condition. Urgent medical assistance may be required for symptoms alongside myalgia including:
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Severe, persistent, or unbearable pain
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Unusual weakness
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Loss of sensation
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Fever, chills, or a rash
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Unexplained redness or swelling
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Chest pain
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Difficulty breathing or swallowing
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Nausea or vomiting
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Loss of bladder or bowel control
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A significant change in urine volume
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Any other unexplained symptoms
How are muscle aches and pain treated?
Muscle aches related to exercise often resolve within 24-48 hours. Self-care strategies can be used to help relieve muscle discomfort and symptoms, including:
1. Resting
A short period of rest can be beneficial, particularly if the muscles have been overloaded or stressed.
2. Activity modification
Avoiding strenuous activity can help alleviate symptoms by removing the triggering factor.
3. Ice therapy
When applied correctly, ice can provide instant, short-term pain relief.
4. Massage
Gentle massage techniques can be used to help reduce muscle tension and restore function.
5. Physiotherapy
This may include gentle exercises, stretches, or specific treatment techniques to reduce symptoms and restore function.
In other situations, a doctor may also recommend:
6. A medication review
As the pain can be caused by medication, it is important to seek medical input if muscle pain develops after starting a new medication.
7. Pain relief
Depending on the cause of the pain, the doctor may prescribe medications to help reduce pain.
8. Surgical review
In cases where the muscle pain is caused by an injury or underlying condition, a doctor may recommend a review with a surgeon.
Tips for preventing sore muscles
Muscle aches and pain can sometimes be prevented using certain strategies.
These tips can help reduce the risk of developing muscle aches:
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Completing a warm-up before and cool-down after exercise
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Gradually increasing any exercise
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Keeping a regular exercise regime
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Staying hydrated, especially during high intensity exercise
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Focusing on posture, especially at work or during exercise
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Avoiding sitting for prolonged periods
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Maintaining general health.
A summary of muscle aches and pain
Muscle aches and pain are a common and normal experience, especially after a new exercise. The pain may feel intense, but it often resolves within 24-48 hours.
However, there are other possible explanations for ongoing discomfort. It is important to speak to a doctor who can rule out any serious or underlying medical issues.
