MUSCLE PAIN

Muscle aches and soreness are common. ‘This tends to come from strains and sprains, but can also be a symptom of illness, such as flu and thyroid problems,’ explains Anshu. If it’s a strain or sprain, she recommends avoiding anti-inflammatory painkillers for the first 48 hours, to give the natural healing process a chance to work. Soreness after exercise is common and caused by microscopic damage to muscle fibres, and should only last three to five days. It’s actually a sign of your fitness improving – muscles mending and becoming stronger. It’s fine to continue exercising but, if you’re in pain, rest until the soreness disappears.

TRY RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevate) for the first two days after any strain or sprain to reduce swelling and help recovery. When the pain has subsided sufficiently for you to move the injured area, try to keep it moving so the joint or muscle doesn’t become stiff.