The primary targets of most types of exercise are your muscles and joints, as exercise increases their flexibility, strength and range of motion. However, exercising can also bring about injuries that may result in joint or muscle pain. If you are experiencing muscle or joint pain after exercising, talk to a doctor to determine the cause.
Lower Back Sprain and Strain
The most common causes of lower back pain are sprains and strains, according to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons. A strain occurs when you tear or stretch your muscle fibers abnormally. A sprain in your lower back occurs when you tear the ligaments from their attachments. Overuse or sudden injury can result in both. Symptoms may include pain in your lower back that may radiate to other parts, not being able to keep a normal posture due to pain and stiffness, pain lasting for 10 to 14 days, low back stiffness, limited range of motion and muscle spasms. Doctors usually recommend short-term bed rest and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, followed by physical therapy.
Herniated Disc
A herniated disc in your spine occurs when the inner area of a spinal disc is pushed out and then puts pressure on the surrounding nerves. Twisting and turning while you are lifting may cause this injury. Symptoms depend on the disc that is affected. Pain is common, and may radiate to other body parts. The pain tends to be worse during activity, and you may also experience tingling, numbness or weakness. Medications and physical therapy are the most common treatments. Common medications include over-the-counter pain medications, nerve pain medications, cortisone injections, narcotic pain medications and muscle relaxers, according to MayoCliniccom. Surgery may be necessary in rare cases.
Facet Joint Arthritis
This condition is generally due to a degenerative process, but overuse can also cause it. Gymnasts are particularly susceptible because their spinal vertebrae are often exposed to wear and tear. You may experience unpredictable and intermittent pain in the affected area of the back, and in some cases the pain radiates. The inflamed joint may be tender to the touch, and you may lose some flexibility in your spine. Treatment involves practicing good posture, heat and/or cold therapy, resting, restraining devices, physical therapy and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. A procedure that destroys the nerve endings of the affected joints, as well as bone fusion, may be necessary in more severe cases.
Muscle Cramps
Muscle cramps and spasms are involuntary muscle contractions. They are common, and most often occur when the affected muscle is injured or overused. Dehydration and low levels or calcium or potassium may also cause muscle cramps. Symptoms include pain, and the affected muscle may still be sore for a few days after the initial spasm or cramp. Treatment includes stretching the affected muscle, applying heat, taking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, ensuring you are properly hydrated and that your calcium and potassium levels are normal.
