Pain Archive

Sore muscle pain that doesn't go away after a few days, becomes severe, or affects mobility could be a sign of a muscle strain, sometimes called a pulled muscle. Mild and moderate muscle strain can be treated with RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) and over-the-counter pain medication as needed. Other treatment methods include massage, stretching, and proper hydration. Severe strains should be checked out as they could be signs of an underlying health problem.

In a 2025 study of 1,800 patients undergoing dental surgery, a combination of two over-the-counter pain relievers was more effective and produced fewer side effects than prescription opioids for treating postsurgical pain.

When debating whether to use a pain pill or a pain patch to treat discomfort, it helps to note the main differences between the two. Pain pills are the first choice to relieve sudden or immediate pain. For more persistent or chronic pain, patches can be used alone or combined with certain pain pills. Before using multiple therapies at the same time, check with your doctor or pharmacist for safety.

A 2024 study found that excess abdominal fat is associated with widespread, chronic pain, especially in women.

Muscles that support the knee—primarily in the legs and hips—need a certain amount of elasticity to work properly. That "give" allows the joints to move through their range of motion easily. If the muscles are tight, they might cause chronic knee pain. Stretching leg muscles can improve flexibility and reduce knee discomfort. Experts recommend doing dynamic stretching before workouts and static stretching afterward. One should consult a doctor if pain persists after a few weeks.

A 2024 study of people with sciatica caused by a herniated disk found that people who received acupuncture for 10 sessions over four weeks had less leg pain and better physical function, compared with people who received sham treatments.