Why body pain & muscle soreness happens
Muscle soreness after exercise (DOMS) comes from microscopic tears in muscle fibres being repaired — peaks 24-48 hours after the workout. Viral body aches are caused by inflammatory cytokines released during an immune response. Back pain is usually mechanical (muscle strain, poor posture) but can come from a slipped disc, kidney issue or even a UTI. Joint pain in older adults often reflects osteoarthritis — cartilage wear at weight-bearing joints. Fibromyalgia, vitamin D deficiency and thyroid issues are common but under-diagnosed causes of chronic body pain in Indians.
What helps — OTC options & advice
For mild-moderate body pain: paracetamol 500-1000 mg every 6 hours, or ibuprofen 400 mg every 8 hours with food (skip ibuprofen if you have an ulcer history, kidney issues, or are over 65 with multiple medicines). For pain with inflammation (gym DOMS, joint pain, sprains): an NSAID like ibuprofen, naproxen, aceclofenac (Zerodol) or diclofenac (Voveran) is more effective. Combination tablets like Combiflam (paracetamol + ibuprofen) cover both inflammation and pain. For muscle spasm in the back or neck, a muscle relaxant like thiocolchicoside or chlorzoxazone helps — these need a prescription. Topical: a diclofenac gel (Volini, Moov, Iodex) rubbed into the painful area three times a day delivers the drug to the spot without stomach effects. Heat pads or hot-water bottles relax tight muscles; cold packs reduce inflammation in fresh injuries (first 48 hours).
