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Fortunately, for most of us it will be because we've simply overworked our muscles and joints.

If there is pain along with inflammation (swelling) there are a few different things you can do. But if this is due to an injury and the area is hot, bruised, swollen, or extremely painful, you may be dealing with something beyond your ability to treat, and you should probably be seen by a doctor. In the meantime, you can apply ice packs and take some aspirin, aceteminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprophen (Advil or Motrin) to help with the pain and swelling and try not to move the affected part.

If you are experiencing sore muscles and aching joints from overuse, age, or chronic disease, choose one of the analgesics above, wait 30 minutes, then take a nice warm bath. This can bring about great relief if you let yourself soak for at least 15 minutes. A very warm (not hot) shower can be just as good to get you loosened up.

Some people find relief by rubbing mentholated gels, such as Bengay on sore muscles. Those who don't relish the smell, prefer to use creams like Aspercreme, (which, by the way, does not contain any aspirin) to bring relief not only to aching muscles, but sore and stiff joints as well.

Some people swear by accupressure, a centuries old practice of applying pressure to certain points of the body with the hands and fingers, thereby activating sensations along the nerves that carry pain signals to the brain. A variation to this is accupuncture, where fine needles are inserted (painlessly) on the surface of the skin, and after waiting a short while, positive signals travel to the brain which then responds in kind by decreasing the sensation of pain.

Light stretching, yoga, heating pads on affected areas, and bed rest can also bring about much needed relief. Try not to sleep for too long to avoid stiffness and muscle atrophy, and invest in the best quality mattress you can afford. Sleeping on a worn mattress can cause pain in your ENTIRE body...........literally!

If these more conservative measures fail to bring relief, then you may need prescription strength anti-inflammatory drugs which can only be prescribed by your doctor, such as corticosteroids like prednisone.

These drugs are often hailed as being "miracle pills" because of their quick action in reducing inflammation and pain; often within only one or two days. But, they come with a price; a very long list of potentially serious side-effects. Interestingly, the most dreaded one seems to be cosmetic in nature.

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