What is myalgia?

Myalgia describes muscle aches and pain, which can involve ligaments, tendons and fascia, the soft tissues that connect muscles, bones and organs. Injuries, trauma, overuse, tension, certain drugs and illnesses can all bring about myalgia.

Symptoms

• Muscle cramps

• Joint pain

Diagnosis

Diagnosis requires careful clinical evaluations of muscle cramps and joint pain.

Treatment

To ease muscle pain due to overuse or injury, rest the body part and take acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Applying ice within the first 24 to 72 hours of an injury can reduce pain and inflammation. After than, heat can be more soothing. Muscle pain from overuse and fibromyalgia respond well to massage and gentle stretching exercises. If pain persists more than three days or the pain is severe and unexplained or there’s any sign of infection, call the doctor for specialized care and possibly medications.