Why do we suffer from muscle pain?
There are two types of muscles:
Smooth muscles, such as those involved in the spontaneous contraction of the heart.
Skeletal striated muscles, particularly involved in physical effort. Their contraction is voluntary and triggered by command of our nervous system. These muscles are those of our calves, our thighs, our arms, but they are also located at the level of the neck, the trunk, all along the spine, and they are involved in all our movements.
But sometimes the striated muscles are painful. There are three types of events that can lead to muscle pain or myalgia.
Some infectious diseases such as the flu can cause body aches, which are typical symptoms of the flu condition; or certain pathologies such as hepatitis, poliomyelitis, rheumatoid arthritis…
A contracture, contusion or trauma: this is the case of lumbago and torticollis.
And by far the most common, sporting effort that is too intense or without preparation. We then readily speak of aches.
How to identify this muscle pain?
The pain is sometimes progressive or sudden; limited to a particular muscle or generalized, affecting several muscle groups; present at rest or intensified during exercise. The description of the pain is more characteristic: stiffness, numbness, tingling, burning sensation, discomfort in movement.
How is myalgia treated?
In the case of a disease, the treatment is that of the cause: the disease is treated and the myalgia gradually disappears.
If the pain is related to physical exertion, it will subside spontaneously over time. But to prevent recurrences, it is imperative to take precautions. Warming up and stretching, preparation and progress in the effort are essential to avoid muscle pain in all athletes.
How to relieve myalgia? (aches and contractures)
- Rest the sore muscle(s).
- Massage painful muscle areas.
- Relax in a hot bath.
- Use a muscle relaxer.
These provide active elements, trace elements and vitamins with beneficial effects on the muscles. For example, magnesium is the major mineral element involved in the processes of muscle contraction and relaxation. Potassium, of which muscle is our main reserve of this element, is involved in many enzymatic systems. It thus contributes to the functioning of cells, the conduction of nerve impulses and muscle contraction. Potassium is also useful for alleviating muscle fatigue. Selenium and copper help protect cells against oxidative stress, which we know is all the more important when physical effort is intense…