Sudden Severe Muscle Pain
Sudden severe muscle pain is not uncommon. It usually involves more than one muscle, but can comprise ligaments, tendons and fascia. Fascia is the soft tissue that connects muscles, bones and organs. Muscle pain is also known as Myalgia pain.
Understanding the pain you feel
In today’s high energy world, sudden severe muscle pain is often related to overuse of muscles, tension, injury from strenuous exercise, and challenging physical work. This type of muscle pain can more easily be pinpointed to specific muscles or groups of muscles. In some cases the severe muscle pain is a signal that there is a disorder that is affecting the whole body.
Possible Causes of Sudden Severe Muscle Pain
A common cause of sudden severe muscle pain is fibromyalgia. This is a condition that causes headaches, insomnia, and pain in the surrounding soft tissue of your muscles. Some common causes of sudden severe muscle pain are:
- Stress and tension
- Using a muscle repetitiously
- Injury or trauma
- Infections Statins a prescription drug for lowering cholesterol
What can you do to ease the pain?
Severe muscle pain due to overuse or injury requires resting the affected body part. You may apply ice to the area for the first 48-72 hours. Take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed. Manipulation (massage) of the muscles often gives relief. Try to lower your stress levels and try moderate regular exercise like taking a walk to break up your day. Get enough rest to allow your body to relax totally. Call your health professional immediately if you have:
- Severe muscle pain that persists or gets worse beyond 3 days
- Sudden severe muscle pain, unexplained pain
- Signs of infection, swelling and redness around a tender muscle
- Your pain is associated with the start of new medication
Preparing to Discuss your Symptoms with your Health Care Professional
When you make an appointment with your health care professional, they may ask some of the following questions:
- Is your sudden severe muscle pain always in the same location?
- Is there a pattern to your muscle pain?
- Have you taken any new medications lately?
- Is there anything that makes it feel better?
- Is there anything that makes it feel worse?
Are you ready for a consultation? Contact one of our offices. We will schedule an appointment and help you ease the pain that you are experiencing.
What Type of Pain are you Experiencing?
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