End Fatigue

Muscle Pain

BACKGROUND

When muscles don’t have enough energy, they get locked in the shortened position. After awhile, they hurt. When the muscle pain is in just 1 or 2 areas, it suggests that there is a structural/ergonomic component. This can be because one leg is shorter than the other, you are carrying a 20 pound purse on your shoulder, repetitive stress injury (as is now being seen with the Wii video games), or other reasons. It is worth looking for these. For example, you might need a wrist support on your computer, or an arm rest on your chair at a height where your wrists and elbows are resting on them.

TREATMENT

Treat with SHINE

When you have frequent muscle pain, or even a localized area where it just won’t go away, treating the underlying factors that control energy production can help the muscles finally release. This means treating with what I call the SHINE Protocol.

The letters in SHINE stand for:

See SHINE under the "More" tab for more information.

Other Therapies & Advice

Ice and heat

In addition, ice acts as an anti-inflammatory and heat brings in healing blood flow. Either can be used for 20 minutes at a time (so you don't overheat or overcool the muscle) and if using both together, start with ice followed by heat. Ice is best used in the first 36 hours after an injury. Heat can be used any time.

Related Information

The SHINE Approach and Treatment Protocol