Muscle Aches Keeping You Up At Night?

Some of the many muscles in the body can ache or become sore. When muscles are pushed beyond normal limits, especially after physical activity, discomfort and stiffness set in. Muscles are made up of thousands of tiny fibers. Prolonged movement, weight training, and physical activity can cause microscopic damage to these fibers. While this is how muscles typically grow through the constant state of repair, the process can be painful. The inflammation and stiffness, sometimes called delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), usually happens 1-2 days after activity. Easing the aches is often necessary for daily function, and this may be achievable with a simple trip to the local pharmacist.

Common causes, risks, and symptoms

Muscle aches are often characterized by pain, tenderness, stiffness, and weakness. The condition can be caused by overexertion, especially if an individual is not accustomed to a specific physical activity. A lack of warmup during exercise or conditioning can increase muscle pain. Some medical conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, or thyroid disorders can cause muscle aches. While muscle aches are generally harmless, chronic soreness impacts the quality of life. Understanding the source of muscle aches can help determine the best treatment options.

Pain medication from your pharmacist

Consider a pharmacist for help with mild to moderate muscle soreness. Pharmacists are experts in medications used in pain management. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, can help with both acute and chronic pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are also useful for muscle aches. These drugs help reduce the inflammation that is common in muscular soreness. These options are oral pain relievers, but topical analgesics are also effective and can directly target the painful area. A pharmacist can recommend the right combination for the best results.

Muscle relaxants, temperature therapy, and supplements

Pharmacists can recommend muscle relaxants for moderate soreness or stiffness. These come in prescription form and can be provided through a doctor. Muscle relaxants work by targeting the central nervous system, creating a relaxing effect that benefits the muscles. Pharmacies also carry heating pads and cold compresses. Temperature therapy is another effective treatment for muscle aches. Studies also show supplements like magnesium significantly reduce muscle soreness and can be an effective long-term solution.

Trust your pharmacist

Muscle soreness can be uncomfortable and disruptive to quality of life. Heading to the local pharmacy is a simple yet effective route to relief. The pharmacist can recommend oral and topical medication to reduce inflammation and pain. Some pharmacists can create custom pain solutions or supplements to support muscle health. For optimal results, combine these options with the appropriate stretching, rest, and massage. Chronic muscle soreness could be a sign of an underlying condition. Consider visiting a doctor if local pharmacist support fails to improve symptoms.