Starting a workout program can be challenging for everyone because the muscle soreness that comes with it is hard to endure.
It is common to experience muscle aches after strenuous physical activity because our muscles go through stretching and contraction. Since no one is immune to muscle soreness there are ways to alleviate the pain. But before finding an answer to our problem let’s understand what’s causing sore muscles first.
What Are The Causes Of Sore Muscles?
If you have recently started a new exercise routine or increased the intensity or duration of your workouts, it’s common to experience sore muscles. But the workout isn’t the only cause of sore muscles there are many possible causes of sore muscles. Here are some common causes of sore muscles you might not know:
Injury:
If you have recently experienced an injury or strain to your muscles, it’s possible that they may be sore as they heal. In some cases, this may require medical attention.
Stress:
When you experience stress, your muscles can become tense and sore. This is often the case with chronic stress or anxiety.
Poor posture:
If you spend a lot of time sitting or standing in the same position, it can cause Muscle Soreness, especially in the neck, shoulders, and back.
Medical conditions:
Certain medical conditions, such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, or an autoimmune disorder, can cause muscle soreness.
Medications:
Some medications, such as statins (used to lower cholesterol) or ACE inhibitors (used to treat high blood pressure), can cause muscle soreness as a side effect.
If your muscle soreness persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever or weakness, it’s better to see a doctor to find out any underlying medical conditions or injuries.
Tips To Prevent And Manage Sore Muscles
Since muscle soreness is a common problem there are many ways to manage it. It is highly suggested to follow these tips in case of mild soreness because in other cases it’s hard to manage severe muscle pain with the following tips.
Cool down and rest:
Resting is one of the most effective ways to relieve muscle pain by allowing your body to rest. Avoid any strenuous activities or exercises that may exacerbate the pain.
Apply heat or ice:
Applying heat or ice to the affected area can help to reduce inflammation and ease muscle pain. Ice is generally recommended for acute injuries or sudden pain, while heat can be more effective for chronic pain or stiffness. The use of heat remedies to treat muscle soreness like using portable air-activated heat wraps and muscle pain-alleviating balms is by far a more effective measure.
Stretching:
Stretching may seem counterintuitive to some people but it is another effective way to relieve muscle pain. Gentle stretching can help to increase blood flow to the affected area, which can help to reduce inflammation and improve flexibility.
Massage:
A massage can help to relieve muscle tension and ease pain. You can either book a professional massage or try self-massage techniques at home using a foam roller, massage ball, or by hand.
Over-the-counter pain medication:
Over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to alleviate muscle pain. Always follow the recommended dosage instructions and check with your doctor if you have any concerns.
Stay hydrated:
Staying hydrated is an overlooked advice on muscle soreness that needs attention. Drinking plenty of water can help to reduce muscle pain by keeping your muscles hydrated and reducing the risk of cramping. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day, and more if you are exercising or in hot weather.
Muscle pain can be short-term or chronic depending on the underlying condition so it is always better to stay conscious about your medical condition and take the course of action accordingly. It is totally possible to prevent and manage muscle pain without professional help in mild cases as severe conditions always need medical attention.