Occupational Physiotherapy FAQ: Muscular Aches & Pains

Muscles are the soft tissue structures that control movement. Each muscle is composed of muscle fibres, these can contract or stretch. Some muscles are large such as the quadriceps at the front of the thigh, whilst others are much smaller such as the muscles of the hand. The longer the fleshy part of the muscle, the greater the range of its movements. They are attached to the bone via tendons; this part is for stability rather than movement and is not so elastic. The area where the tendon joins the muscle fibres is known as the musculotendinous junction.

Injuries can occur at any part of the muscle for a number of different reasons. It may be as a result of a single incident or injury such as tripping or over-reaching. Long term incorrect use can also cause pain or weakness. If one muscle is weakened or not being used correctly, this may create problems with other soft tissue structures that have to compensate. Most muscle problems clear quickly and only require self help, however should pain continue then a full physiotherapy assessment may be of benefit to understand and fix the problem to prevent further complications.