Muscle inflammation is the term used to describe one’s condition when experiencing such symptoms as stiffness, swelling, non-specific pain, and general muscle weakness or soreness. Without proper testing at a hospital to determine the particular cause of the inflammation, it is very difficult to proceed with a method of treatment to properly alleviate the inflammation and prevent muscle pain.
Furthermore, there are a plethora of causes of this specific condition that should be eliminated if the symptoms are intense and of unknown origin. For example, one may experience chronic muscle inflammation as a result of lupus or multiple sclerosis. That is why a consultation with a medical professional, such as a rheumatologist, is necessary for imaging and blood tests to properly diagnose the condition.
Causes
Most cases of minor muscle inflammation, with the exception of autoimmune disease, are generally attributed to muscle strains caused by exercising or general recreational activities. This happens when the lactic acid build up when exercising is eventually overshadowed by the discomfort of muscle aches. Regrettably, many who experience this think icing their aching muscles is the proper course of action when, instead, they should be applying heat to increase blood circulation. Using a gel pack or electric heating pad that can be put in the microwave are both viable choices for this situation.
NSAIDs
Another way to address muscle pain and inflammation is through the use of non-steroidal pain relief medication, abbreviated as NSAIDs. These can be purchased over-the-counter without a prescription, such as ibuprofen and aspirin. If, after a consultation with the doctor, he deems that your situation is severe enough, prescriptions can be made out for a stronger medication like naproxen. Furthermore, if the condition is severe or chronic, treatment with message therapy, ultrasound, or physical rehabilitation will be beneficial.
Home Remedies
There are various home remedies that can be applied to complement other treatments in order to facilitate faster healing of muscle inflammation. For example, small homeopathic dosages of arnica can often provide quick relief. Also, applying certain essential oils mixed with a carrier oil directly onto the affected areas might also help. These ingredients include wintergreen and birch, either of which contain analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, the former is used in various over-the-counter topical formulas designed specifically to cure muscle aches. Moreover, ingesting fish oil supplements might also help as a result of the anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 fatty acids.
While on the path to recovery, it may be prudent to stay away from consuming too much animal products, of which high concentrations of pro-inflammatory fats may be present. These fats will boost the production of leukotrienes, which will cause the immune system to be strained. Ultimately, more inflammation will result.
Rest
Lastly, resting enough each night is conducive to reducing pain and inflammation. This may prove to be an arduous task when pain, swelling, or involuntary muscle spasms work in tandem to prevent this from happening. But, there is much evidence supporting the idea that there is a significant correlation between the body’s ability to repair itself and how much rest it receives. As such, if a lengthy eight hour sleep at night is not possible, then try several well-timed naps during the day as a compromise for less nighttime sleep.
Photo Credit: “Wintertenen” by Sapp