Before we dive into what concerns us most (muscle pain-related conditions), let’s find out how muscle pain occurs first. Also known as myalgia, muscle pain is something we all experience at some point in life. It can feel quite different from person to person, but all doctors agree that the most common symptoms are cramping, aching, burning, or a stabbing-like sensation.
So… what causes it? Well, playing basketball with your friends all weekend is a pretty obvious factor, along with pushing your limits at the gym, but what’s the answer when these types of factors don’t correlate with your lifestyle? It’s simple: go to the doctor!
Muscle pain can be caused by medication, too. According to a physical medicine and rehabilitation doctor at NorthShore University HealthSystem in Chicago, George Kannankeril, MD, muscle pain caused by an intense physical activity (muscle soreness) should last two days or so. If it lasts more than one week, call your doctor as soon as possible.
With that in mind, click on the “NEXT” button to see if your muscle pain hides something else.