Experiencing pain during or after working out is a normal thing, as anyone who has ever strained themselves or worked hard during exercise will tell you. The pain will usually go away on its own after a few days, but if it doesn't, there may be a more serious underlying issue. Knowing the signs and symptoms can help determine if the pain is temporary of if you need to seek professional help.
Classifications
There are two types of muscle pain commonly associated with exercise, according to the American Council on Exercise: the pain you get during or immediately following exercise that quickly dissipates, and delayed-onset muscle soreness, which is felt 24 to 48 hours after exercising and naturally disappears after 72 hours. DOMS is usually found in beginners who overexert themselves, or in more conditioned athletes who work muscles they normally don't use. The pain associated with DOMS should gradually lessen as the muscles build strength. If it lasts over three days or comes with other symptoms such as a rash, fever or redness and swelling, there is another underlying disorder or trauma, and a doctor should be consulted.
Symptoms
Pain during or immediately after exercise quickly dissipates and is usually experienced as a mild ache or burning sensation. The pain caused by DOMS will usually manifest as loss of strength, pain, muscle tenderness, stiffness and swelling. If trauma such as torn or strained muscle is an underlying cause, there will typically be swelling and redness around the damaged area, along with increased pain during movement. Other symptoms such as fever, rash, fatigue and headaches can indicate infection or an underlying disorder, such as fibromyalgia. If the latter symptoms occur, call a doctor.
Treatments
For treatment of pain that occurs during or after exercise, MayoClinic.com recommends the RICE protocol: rest, ice, compression, elevation. Rest from any activity. Ice the affected muscle or muscles for 15 to 20 minutes three times a day. Compress the muscle or muscles with a bandage and elevate them to reduce any swelling. This works best if done 48 hours after the pain first occurs. Ibuprofen or acetiminophen can help, according to MedlinePlus, both for specific injuries and overall muscle pain. Soaking in a hot tub and having a massage can also help. If none of these reduce the symptoms, or of the pain persists along with other symptoms, you will need treatment from a medical professional.
Considerations
There are other times where professional medical intervention is necessary. MedlinePlus recommends calling 911 if you experience sudden weight gain or water retention or you are urinating less than usual; you are short of breath or have difficulty swallowing; you have muscle weakness or cannot move any part of your body, or if you are vomiting and have a high fever and stiff neck. Medications such as statins or ACE inhibitors can also cause muscle pain, so consult with your physician if you are taking them, or any other medication.
Prevention
If your muscle pain is caused by overexertion or DOMS, there are steps you can take. Stretch before and after exercise to keep the muscles loose. Do some warmup exercises before exerting yourself too much, and have a cool-down period after exercising. Drink plenty of fluids and electrolytes before, during and after exercise.
