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Extreme Muscle Pain after a Significant FLARE

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭

Perhaps this has been addressed but at this moment in time my brain is not up to researching it.

I am recovering from a significant 💥FLARE💥 and tonight I am experiencing extreme muscle pain. In my back along both sides, across my collar bones areas and my back of my neck. Can barely stand any touch against my body. Even sitting in my recliner is not all that comfortable tonight.

I was very busy and not at home today and missed my regularly scheduled Tylenol Arthritis this afternoon. There… read more

2 days ago
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Answer Summary

Members rallied around a question about extreme muscle pain following a significant flare, with the general consensus being that the body may... Read more

Members rallied around a question about extreme muscle pain following a significant flare, with the general consensus being that the body may still be in an active flare and needs more rest. Several members suggested helpful remedies including hot showers, Epsom salt baths with magnesium bath bombs, lavender for relaxation, and lying still with a heating pad after taking pain medication or a muscle relaxer. A recurring theme was the importance of listening to your body, not pushing through rest days, and showing yourself grace when recovery takes longer than expected.

A myRAteam Member

I’m a big fan of steam if you’re able or just standing under the hot shower or soaking in a hot bath if you’re not. The wet heat penetrates better than the dry heat of a heating pad and has always been like hitting the reset button for me.

2 days ago
A myRAteam Member

I agree with both scenarios Kristina! I did the hot Epsom Salt & Magnesium bath bombs soak earlier. I'm still really tender and achy. I'll be ok. Just need to recover a little slower. I drove my friend Molly to do some errands today, we did lunch out, and then I took her to a consultation with an Optometrist. She can't see enough to get around safely, let alone drive. She found out today she has Wet AMD. It's 9 out of 10 on a scale of bad. I should have rested, however, I was helping my friend who really is pretty bad off atm. I'll be ok.

2 days ago (edited)
myRAteam

So sorry to hear you're going through this — a significant flare is exhausting enough without the aftermath hitting hard too. You're not alone in this experience.

Muscle pain during and after an RA flare is actually quite common. When RA flares, inflammation ramps up throughout the body, and that can affect muscles and Show Full Answer

So sorry to hear you're going through this — a significant flare is exhausting enough without the aftermath hitting hard too. You're not alone in this experience.

Muscle pain during and after an RA flare is actually quite common. When RA flares, inflammation ramps up throughout the body, and that can affect muscles and surrounding tissues, not just joints. Missing that afternoon dose of Tylenol likely didn't help, as keeping pain relief consistent is important during a flare recovery. Here are a few gentle things that may help tonight:

- Heat therapy — a heating pad on your back or neck can help ease muscle tension and improve blood flow
- Cold packs — if any areas feel inflamed or hot, cold can help reduce that
- Rest — your body is telling you it needs recovery time, so listen to it
- Comfortable positioning — try adding extra pillows to support your neck and back

The pain sensitivity you're describing, where even light touch is unbearable, is worth mentioning to your rheumatologist. While post-flare muscle pain can happen, your doctor should know about the severity so they can assess whether any treatment adjustments are needed.

2 days ago
A myRAteam Member

Yes a hot bath with Epson salts
You can try a heavy dose of magnesium
Don’t take to much or tomorrow you could spend extra time in the bathroom
Hope you feel better soon CindiSmith

2 days ago
A myRAteam Member

I do appreciate all your kind words and pieces of advice!

21 hours ago

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