Muscle Ache
Causes
In the past it was believed that muscle ache was caused by the acidity of muscles. However, newer studies show that the overstraining of muscles leads to small tears in the muscle fibres (micro trauma). Fluid is then able to infiltrate the muscle fibres through the tears. Consequently, after one to two days, this leads to the accumulation of excess fluid (oedema) in the muscle fibres. This causes the muscle fibres to swell and consequently stretch. The pain caused by the stretching is presumably responsible for the painful muscle ache.
Symptoms
About 24 to 36 after overstraining the muscles, they start to hurt and movement becomes limited. The muscles are also sensitive to pressure.
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Treating Muscle Ache
- Hot baths, sauna and warmth application on the muscle
- Low intensity movement
- Relax and stretch exercises
The above mentioned measures help to increase the blood circulation of the muscle. This helps to remove catabolic products which cause the pain. If the muscle ache lasts longer than 3 to 5 days, it could be a pulled muscle.
Preventing Muscle Ache
It is important not to suddenly overstrain or overexert untrained muscles for longer periods of time. Try not to be overambitious when exercising and always warm-up before your start working out. Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of your workout.
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