12/25/2025
Many people assume that all pain comes from tight or injured muscles. While muscles certainly play a role, they are often not the true source of ongoing discomfort. In many cases, pain reflects nervous system overload, not simple muscle strain. Understanding the difference helps explain why pain sometimes lingers even after rest, stretching, or massage.
Muscle pain usually develops after overuse, injury, or sudden strain. You might notice soreness, stiffness, or tenderness in a specific area.