What are muscle aches and pains?

Muscle aches and pains, also called myalgia, can be felt anywhere that you have muscle tissue. Myalgia usually affects a few muscles at a time. This often occurs after a certain movement or activity. Sometimes myalgia can affect many parts of the body at once. If muscle pain affects your whole body, it can be a sign of another medical condition such as an infection.

What symptoms are related to muscles aches and pains?

If you have muscle aches and pains, you may have:

• mild to severe pain in muscles anywhere in your body
• sensitive muscles
• muscle pain first thing in the morning
• feelings of weakness in the affected muscles
• less pain after rest

What causes muscle aches and pains?

Muscle aches and pains may be caused by:

• overuse or injury after exercise or physically demanding work
• tension and stress
• viruses such as the flu or COVID 19
• connective tissue disorders
• fibromyalgia

Some medicines can also cause muscle aches and pains. If muscle pain starts soon after starting a new medicine, discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist. Do not stop taking a prescribed medicine without first checking with a health professional.

How is the cause of muscle aches and pains diagnosed?

To find the cause of muscle aches and pains, your doctor will do an examination. They will ask about your symptoms and may ask about psychological factors.

Your doctor may also refer you for further tests like blood tests or an x-ray.

When should I see my doctor?

You should see your doctor if you have muscle aches and pains that:

• are severe and affect your daily life
• do not get better with time and with rest

How are muscle aches and pains treated?

The treatment of muscle aches and pains depends on the cause.

Self-care at home

Often you can manage muscle aches and pains at home, if you:

• rest the affected muscles
• apply heat to the sore area
• continue gentle exercise in a way that does not increase your muscle pain

Medicines for muscle aches and pains

If the aches and pains do not improve, a doctor or physiotherapist might suggest:

• anti-inflammatory medication to help with the pain
• corticosteroid treatment

Other treatment options

• lifestyle changes such as weight loss can be helpful
• physiotherapy
• massage

Can muscle aches and pains be prevented?

Not all muscle aches and pains can be prevented. However, some muscle pain can be prevented if you:

• exercise regularly
• stay at a healthy weight
• keep stress levels low

What are the complications of muscle aches and pains?

When pain continues for longer than 3 months, this is known as chronic pain. If you have chronic pain, it is important to see your doctor to find out the cause and get treatment.

If not managed well, chronic pain can lead to further problems such as:

• social isolation
• anxiety
• depression

Resources and support

Visit Musculoskeletal Australia for advice on a range of health conditions including muscle aches and pains, and the benefits of exercise to help reduce your symptoms.

Pain Australia has a list of pain programs available, a fact sheet on pain management, and information on causes and treatment of back pain. They also have resources on chronic pain for children and young people.

Arthritis Australia explains the pain cycle and offers techniques that may help you manage your pain.

You can also call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 at any time to speak to a registered nurse (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria) for more information and advice.