Muscle pain is a common but distressing problem. People of any age can be affected. Although the pain is often temporary, at times it grows severe enough to disrupt daily activities. Pain in the muscles of the arms and legs, neck, shoulders or back can in particular reduce normal movement and the ability to function.
Muscle pain usually appears as a result of excessive physical exertion, carrying heavy loads, sitting in the same posture for long periods, prolonged walking or an injury of some kind. In some cases, however, it can occur without any clear cause. There are several important reasons behind muscle pain.
Mental stress
Excessive mental stress affects the body and also has a negative effect on the muscles. Prolonged stress raises the level of various stress hormones in the body, which leaves the muscles tense and fatigued. As a result, pain may be felt in the neck, shoulders, back or elsewhere. Those who remain under stress for long periods tend to be relatively more prone to muscle pain.
Dehydration
When the body lacks enough water, the normal functioning of the muscles is disrupted. This can lead to muscle pain, weakness or cramps. Dehydration can also cause headaches, fatigue and difficulty concentrating. Drinking enough water every day is therefore very important for the health of the body and the muscles.
Nutritional deficiency
Various vitamins and minerals play an immense role in maintaining the body’s health. Vitamin D in particular is very important for the health of the muscles and bones. A deficiency of vitamin D can cause muscle pain and weakness. Sunlight is the main source of vitamin D. The vitamin can also be obtained from oily fish, milk, egg yolk, mushrooms and some dairy foods.
Lack of sleep
Without enough sleep, the body’s processes of repair and recovery are disrupted. An adult generally needs seven to eight hours of sleep a day. A lack of sleep increases fatigue, raises stress and can lead to muscle pain. Long-term sleep problems have a negative effect on both physical and mental health.
When to consult a doctor
If muscle pain persists for a long time, becomes severe, returns repeatedly without cause, or is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, weakness or swelling of the muscle, a doctor should certainly be consulted.
To prevent muscle pain, it is very important to ensure regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate water intake, stress control and enough sleep. A mindful lifestyle helps reduce the risk of such problems considerably.
Writer: musculoskeletal disorders specialist
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report