Muscle and joint pain may overlap, but they can have different causes and treatment approaches. Muscle and joint pain can accompany swelling, stiffness, reduced mobility, and other symptoms.
Depending on the cause, muscle pain, or myalgia, usually subsides when the affected area is not in use. However, joint pain can persist even when the body is at rest. This is because joint pain often relates to
This article overviews the most common causes of muscle and joint pain, treatments for these issues, and when to seek medical attention.
Muscle pain can be a short- or long-term issue, depending on the cause. Possible causes of short-term, or acute, muscle pain include:
- injuries, such as sprains and strains or overuse
- infection such as
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the first 30 days of a tick bite nutrient deficiencies or imbalances- certain medications such as statins for cholesterol or
methylphenidates for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder - stress or anxiety
Possible causes of long-term, or chronic, muscle pain include:
- fibromyalgia, a chronic syndrome that can cause widespread body pain
- lupus
- myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome
- myofascial pain syndrome
- multiple sclerosis
- myositis, a condition that causes inflammation of the muscles
- depression
Joint pain may be constant or sporadic and can affect multiple body areas, but a person will most commonly feel it in the hands, feet, knees, hips, and neck. Unlike muscle pain, joint pain directly affects the joints and surrounding structures, such as bones, cartilage, and tendons.
Possible causes of joint pain include:
- infection
- injuries, such as broken bones or sprains
- osteoarthritis
- bursitis
- tendinitis
- rheumatoid arthritis
- gout
Common muscle and joint pain symptoms include:
Muscle pain often occurs with muscle spasms and cramps. People may also have muscle and joint pain at the same time.
Some individuals may experience pain that comes and goes, while others may have constant pain.
Generally, diagnosing muscle and joint pain involves a doctor taking a medical history and examining the affected area.
If the cause of a person’s pain is not apparent, a doctor may recommend tests, such as:
There are various treatment options for muscle and joint pain, depending on its cause and severity. These can include:
- physical therapy
- medications, such as pain relievers or muscle relaxants
- hot or cold therapy
- massage therapy
- surgery, such as joint replacement surgery, synovectomy, or arthroscopy
- acupuncture
Medications
Medications for muscle pain include prescription medications, such as muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatories, and anticonvulsants. People can also take over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
Medications for joint pain include:
- prescription medications, such as tramadol and corticosteroid joint injections
- OTC pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac
- OTC topical analgesics, such as creams, gels, or patches
Home remedies
Home remedies for muscle pain include:
- rest
- elevating or massaging the affected area
- alternating between a hot and cold compress
- soaking in a warm bath with some Epsom salts
Home remedies for joint pain include:
- gentle exercises and stretching, such as yoga or tai chi
- maintaining a moderate weight
- exercise therapy, including physical therapy and low impact activities
- eating anti-inflammatory foods, such as strawberries, nuts, and olive oil
- using supportive aids such as braces, canes, or orthotics
As there are many causes of muscle and joint pain, prevention may not always be possible. However, the following may help prevent muscle and joint pain relating to injuries:
- warming up and cooling down properly before and after physical activity
- maintaining an appropriate posture
- getting regular exercise
- taking breaks to stretch and move around during prolonged periods of sitting or standing
The Arthritis Foundation provides the following advice for reducing the risk of arthritis:
- maintain a moderate weight
- avoid smoking, if applicable
- eat a nutritious diet low in sugar, alcohol, and purines
Below are some answers to frequently asked questions about muscle and joint pain.
How do you know if it is muscle or joint pain?
One of the best ways to tell the difference between muscle and joint pain is to pay attention to the location and type of pain. People typically feel muscle pain as dullness or ache in a specific muscle or muscle group. Conversely, individuals often feel joint pain in and around the joints that can be sharp or burning.
When should I be worried about muscle and joint pain?
Muscle and joint pain that is severe or does not resolve within a few days could indicate an underlying condition.
A person should consult a doctor if they:
Joint and muscle pain can be temporary, but in some instances, people should seek medical attention.
For muscle pain
Muscle pain due to sprains, strains, or overuse should subside within 2 weeks. People with muscle pain should seek medical care if:
- the pain is severe or worsens
- there is a large amount of swelling and bruising
- it hurts to put weight on the affected area
- the affected area is very stiff and difficult to move
- they develop a fever
For joint pain
People with joint pain should contact a doctor if the skin around the joint feels swollen and hot or if they feel unwell and have a fever.
Individuals should seek immediate medical care if they experience more severe symptoms, such as:
- severe joint pain following an injury or fall
- being unable to put weight on the joint
- a joint shifting position
- numbness or tingling around the joint
Muscle and joint pain are common issues. Arthritis is a common cause of joint pain, and injury or overuse are common causes of muscle pain. To prevent muscle and joint pain, people should maintain a moderate weight, exercise regularly and ensure an appropriate posture.
Some treatment options for muscle and joint pain include taking OTC pain medication and home remedies, such as applying a heat pad or ice pack, resting, and gentle massage.
Although the pain can be uncomfortable, it should improve within a few days of treatment. However, in some cases, it may take more time to recover. If the pain does not subside, it is best to seek medical care from a healthcare professional.