Nerve Pain vs Muscle Pain: Key Differences Explained

It’s normal for our bodies to feel pain at times, whether from a nerve or a muscle. The strength of our body’s design is in its ability to alert us through pain, signaling potential or actual harm.

It could be a sprained ankle after running, a pulled muscle from lifting a heavy box, or a throbbing headache after a long day at work. Still, these signals, carried from nociceptors through the nerves to the brain, help us figure out whether the discomfort is muscle-related or nerve-driven.

Building on that understanding, nerve and muscle pain are the most common types of pain we experience due to everyday wear and tear, such as repetitive strain from typing, metabolic issues like diabetes, or infections like the flu, which often target these vulnerable systems.

That's why recognizing the difference between nerve and muscle pain is essential for finding quick and effective cooling relief.

A throbbing, exhausting nerve pain doesn't respond to the same care as a stiff muscle after heavy lifting. Treating one like the other often causes more discomfort and delays recovery. Each type of pain needs its own approach to guide the body toward genuine healing.

Biofreeze^® Canada explains whether your discomfort is caused by nerves or muscles by explaining the main symptoms, causes, how each type of pain feels, and how they are different.

Before we delve into the main topic, it is important to know that pain arises from nerves or muscles.

What is nerve pain?

Nerve pain, also known as neuralgia or neuropathic pain, happens when nerves are damaged by injury or illness. Unlike typical soreness, it often feels sharp, burning, tingling, or electric-like. Because nerves control pain signals, this type of pain is usually more persistent and difficult to manage.

Symptoms

Here are the common symptoms of nerve pain (neuropathic pain):

• Sharp, stabbing, or shooting pain
• Burning or electric shock–like sensations
• Tingling, prickling, or “pins and needles” feeling
• Numbness or decreased ability to feel touch
• Increased sensitivity (even light touch can cause pain)
• Muscle weakness or difficulty moving the affected area
• Pain that persists or worsens at night

Causes of nerve pain

Nerve pain results from nerve damage, irritation, or compression due to injuries, infections like shingles, chronic conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease, autoimmune disorders like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, tumors, toxins, or alcohol use.

What is muscle pain?

Muscle pain, or myalgia, describes soreness or discomfort in one or more muscles. It is often caused by tension, overuse, or minor injuries during daily activities or exercise. In some cases, muscle pain may also be associated with infections or underlying health issues.

 Symptoms

Here are the common symptoms of muscle pain (myalgia) :

• Aching, throbbing, or sore muscles
• Stiffness or tightness in the affected area
• Swelling, redness, or tenderness
• Pain that worsens with movement or activity
• Muscle weakness or fatigue
• Difficulty stretching or using the muscle normally.

Causes of muscle pain

Muscle pain, or myalgia, often results from overuse, minor injuries, stress, infections like the flu, or medications. It may also be linked to chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia, autoimmune disorders, or neuromuscular diseases.

How to tell the difference between nerve pain and muscle pain?

Here’s how to tell if your pain comes from nerves or muscles.

Pain location: Localised vs. radiating

Muscle pain usually occurs in a specific area, such as the neck, shoulders, or back, and often results from strain, overuse, or minor injuries. It is typically described as aching, stiff, or sore and remains limited to the affected muscles. This localized nature makes it easier to identify and treat with rest or targeted therapies.

Nerve pain, on the other hand, often radiates along the affected nerve's path, causing sharp, burning, or tingling sensations. Conditions like sciatica or a pinched neck nerve can send pain into the legs, arms, or hands. It may persist or worsen over time and is often accompanied by numbness, sensitivity, or a deep, lingering discomfort.

Nature of discomfort: Dull ache vs. sharp sensations

Muscle pain is a dull, aching feeling or tightness after activity or overuse. It typically remains localized and can be relieved with rest, stretching, or physical therapy. This kind of pain is predictable and associated with strain or overuse.

In contrast, nerve pain is sharp, shooting, or burning and can sometimes feel like electric shocks; it may also radiate along the affected nerve's path. Additionally, it can be accompanied by tingling, numbness, or a “pins and needles” sensation, which is rarely seen with muscle pain.

Triggers and aggravating factors

The triggers and aggravating factors for muscle and nerve pain differ widely. Muscle pain is typically intensified by movement, pressure, or overuse of the affected area. Relief often comes from rest, gentle stretching, or massage, which helps reduce tension and support the recovery process.

Certain postures, extended sitting or standing, and mild stimuli like touch or temperature shifts can cause nerve pain. Unlike muscle pain, rest often offers little relief. Proper diagnosis and targeted treatments are essential to address the nerve problem.

Over-the-counter medication

Experience the soothing relief of Biofreeze^® Canada’s topical pain products, delivering cooling comfort for muscle pain. They help to ease soreness, so you can get back to your daily activities or workouts with ease.

Relieve muscle pain with the fast-acting, long-lasting cooling of Biofreeze^® Pain Relief Gel. Its easy-to-apply formula works on both small and large areas.

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