MAIN Health Pain Muscle Pain

also see in Health: Muscular System

"Oh, my aching muscles!"

It's the cry that's often heard as a result of spending too much time out in the garden, running to catch the bus, or even from working around the house.

Why do muscles ache?

Muscle pain, which is also widely referred to as myalgia is a very common type of pain that can be a symptom of any number of health conditions.

If the source of the muscle pain is localized to an area where some trauma or injury has occurred then the cause is usually fairly obvious. However muscle pain without an obvious source, or muscle pain that is not relatively localized, may sometimes be the result of some more serious condition such as disease or infection.

Common causes of muscle pain

Injury, overuse, or stress are the most common causes of muscle pain. Besides physcial trauma, leg pain or knee pain for example may arise from simply standing in one location too long. Back pain and shoulder pain is usually a result of physcial strain or overexertion.

Sometimes, muscle pain may be a side effect of a prescription medicine, especially statin drugs. The stress brought about by quitting smoking or substance withdrawal can also be the cause of muscle pain. Fever, flu, and even the common cold can cause muscle pain, together with other conditions which adversely affect the immune system.

More serious causes of muscle pain range from lyme disease or sciatica to electrolyte imbalances like too little potassium or calcium.

Muscle pain treatment

Medications such as acetaminophen, along with ice packs or warm compresses, are usually prescribed to reduce pain and swelling. Rest, however, is usually the best medicine for giving the muscles or surrounding joints the time they need to repair themselves. Proper hydration is also important for keeping muscles and joints strong and supple.

Ultimately, muscle pain is a very common symptom, but if it is particularly severe or reoccurring a visit to the doctor is highly recommended to help correctly diagnose the cause.

More about muscle pain around the Web:

MedlinePlus - Muscle aches - Good overview of common treatments & causes with detailed information on more serious cases of muscle pain and advice on when to see a doctor, with related illustrations and guide to joint pain.

Muscle Pain - Causes - Symptoms - Diagnosis - Treatment - Pain Relief - About.com guide with extensive information on muscle pain that arises from common to more serious conditions with information on pain relievers, muscle relaxers and natural remedies.

Muscle pain Symptom Search - Details on over 70 different conditions and diseases related to muscle pain.

also see in Pain -> Alternative pain therapies | Foot pain | Neck pain