Muscle stiffness can be caused by various factors, including:
- Exercise : Intense or new exercise routines can lead to muscle stiffness due to microscopic damage to the muscle fibers, known as delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS)
- Injury : Sprains or strains can cause muscle stiffness, affecting both muscles and ligaments
- Underlying conditions : Conditions such as lupus, hypothyroidism, and infections like the flu or COVID-19 can be associated with muscle stiffness
- Medications : Some medications, such as statins or anesthetics used before surgery, can cause muscle stiffness as a side effect
- Electrolyte imbalances : Imbalances in electrolytes like sodium and potassium, especially after exercise, may also cause muscle stiffness
In most cases, muscle stiffness can be relieved with home remedies like stretching, icing the affected area, and improving posture. However, if muscle stiffness is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment
