Muscle pain is usually mild and short-term (also known as acute). The pain will likely last for a few days, or even a few weeks. Acute muscle pain is most commonly caused by:
- Tension and stress
- Overuse
- Minor injuries
- Poor form and posture when exercising
These issues can cause muscle pain in specific areas or groups of the body. You might feel so stressed that your neck muscles become tighter, which can cause pain and stiffness.
Overuse of a muscle group may occur through repetitive motions, or intense activity such as when you work in the yard. Your legs might hurt if you fall. You might lift too many boxes, and you may feel muscle pain in your back from strained muscles.
Regardless of how you suffered your muscle injury, Charleston Pain & Rehab is here to help you achieve a full recovery. Our physical therapy programs are individually tailored to each patients needs. Contact our office today to speak with a specialist.
What Causes Muscle Pain Besides Overuse?
Systemic muscle pain, which is a form of widespread muscle pain, can be felt in multiple muscle groups. This type of pain can be caused by:
- Infections or illness, such as Lyme disease or the flu.
- Chronic medical conditions include disorders that affect your immune system such as fibromyalgia, which causes tenderness in the muscles, and lupus, which is a disorder of connective tissue.
- Side effects of certain medications such as statins that lower cholesterol can sometimes cause muscle pain.
Rare medical conditions can affect muscles. Myositis is one example of an autoimmune disorder that targets healthy muscle tissue. It causes muscle pain, fatigue, weakness, and aches.
What’s the difference between a strain and a strain?
Sprains, and strains, while they have similar symptoms, can cause injuries that affect different parts of your body. Both strains and sprains can be mild or severe depending on how severe the injury is.
Sprains
A sprain is when you pull or stretch a ligament, which is the thin band of flexible tissue connecting bones, cartilage or holding a joint together. Any part of your body that has ligaments can sustain a sprain, such as the ankles, wrists and feet.
Strains
Strains are caused by muscles and/or tendons being stretched or torn. Strains of large muscle groups, like the hamstrings or hip flexors are common.
What causes strains and sprains?
Because these areas are susceptible to sudden shifting movements such as when you suddenly change your direction, sprains and strains often occur at the joints of wrists, ankles and knees.
Ankle sprains can be caused by the foot turning inward or outward to stretch the ligaments on either side.
Symptoms of Strains and Sprains
Sprains and strains can be mild or severe.
Mild
A slight tear or excessive stretching of the ligament. There is a slight amount of swelling and tenderness. However, it is possible to place weight on the joint.
Moderate
The ligament fibers are slightly torn, but not completely broken. It is painful and tender. The joint is discolored or swollen from bleeding and is unsteady when you put weight on it.
Severe
One to three ligaments are completely torn. The joint is unable to move or hold its weight. The joint may be discolored or very swollen. It can be hard to tell if there is a fracture or dislocation.
Are Muscle Pains a Sign I Should See a Doctor?
Muscle pain can be severe. Sometimes, it could indicate a more serious condition and you should see your doctor. Sometimes, muscle pain can be a sign that you have a serious condition and should seek emergency treatment.
Experts recommend calling 911 or going to the hospital immediately if you experience any of these symptoms, in addition to muscle pain.
- Trouble breathing (shortness)
- Difficulty swallowing
- Dizziness
- Sudden weight gain, water retention or decreased urination
- Extreme paralysis or muscle weakness in any part of the body
- Vomiting
- Stiff neck and high fever
Treatments We Use to Treat Muscle Injuries
At Charleston Pain and Rehab we offer a wide array of treatments to help individuals suffering from muscle pain and injuries.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is an effective and common way to treat muscle injuries. Not only does the physical therapy promote the strengthening of the injured muscles through controlled movements, it also builds strength in the surrounding muscles, reducing the likelihood of reinjury.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is most commonly used to treat muscle pain caused by a chronic condition, or immediately following an injury. Massage therapy can provide relief from pain while also promoting muscle repair by increasing blood flow to the affected areas.
Contact Charleston Pain & Rehab Today for Effective Muscle Injury Treatments
No matter how you suffered your injury, be it a car accident, on the job injury, working out, or just picking up a package, the expert team at Charleston Pain & Rehab is ready to help you get the best treatment possible for your injury. With 50+ years of experience, numerous board certified specialists, and a dedicated team of support staff, we provide exceptional, personalized care to each patient.
Contact our office today to schedule your in office evaluation. Once a doctor has examined you, we will work with you to craft a treatment plan that heals your injuries while also fitting your schedule. Don’t suffer for another minute, call us at 843-920-3224 today!
