Muscle and Joint Pain

Pain in muscles and joints are common and seldom need to be treated by a doctor.

What to look for

  • Stiffness and pain especially with movement

Causes

  • Strain due to overexertion
  • Injury
  • Inflammation
  • Wear and tear

Treatment at home for muscle pain

  • Massage affected part and keep it warm
  • Rest
  • Take painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen
Treatment at home for joint pain
  • Rest the sore joint
  • Take painkillers as for muscle pain

Strains and sprains

Rice:

  • Rest the injured part
  • Ice wrapped in a cloth - or a bag of frozen peas - can be used to reduce the swelling. But do not apply for longer than 15 minutes at a time.
  • Compress the injury gently with a bandage
  • Elevate the injured part

When to see your doctor

  • If the pain in the joint or muscle does not improve after three days
  • If the joint looks deformed
  • If there is swelling
  • If mobility is badly affected