Our muscles are constantly communicating with us, telling us when something isn’t quite right. These cues can range from subtle discomfort to excruciating pain. Here are 10 signs your muscles are trying to tell you something:.

1. Tightness or stiffness

Feeling tight or stiff muscles, especially in the morning, can be a sign that your body is not getting the movement it needs. It’s important to stretch and move throughout the day to prevent muscle stiffness and maintain flexibility.

2. Lingering soreness

If you’ve had an intense workout, it’s not uncommon to feel sore muscles the next day. However, if the soreness lingers for multiple days, it may be a sign that you’ve pushed your muscles too hard and need to rest and recover.

3. Fatigue

Excessive fatigue can be a symptom of overworked muscles, especially if you’re feeling tired even after getting plenty of sleep. Give your muscles a break by taking a day off from exercise and prioritize rest and recovery.

4. Inability to complete exercises

If you’re finding that you can’t complete exercises that were once easy for you, it may be a sign of muscle fatigue or injury. Take a step back and reevaluate your training program to ensure you’re not overexerting yourself.

5. Numbness or tingling

Numbness or tingling can be a sign of a pinched nerve or nerve damage. It’s important to consult a medical professional if you experience these symptoms to determine the underlying cause.

6. Swelling or inflammation

If you’re experiencing swelling or inflammation in a specific area of your body, it may be a sign of a muscle strain or tear. Rest and recover the affected area and consider seeing a physical therapist to aid in the healing process.

7. Persistent pain

Persistent pain, especially during exercise or movement, can be a sign of a muscle injury or strain. It’s important to rest and allow the affected muscle time to heal before returning to exercise.

8. Limited range of motion

If you’re experiencing limited range of motion in a joint or muscle, it may be a sign of an injury or joint problem. Consider seeing a physical therapist to diagnose and treat the underlying issue.

9. Clicking or popping noises

Clicking or popping noises in a joint can be a sign of joint damage or instability. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to see a medical professional to determine the underlying cause.

10. Changes in posture

Changes in posture, such as slouching or hunching over, can be a sign of muscle imbalances or weakness. Targeted strength training exercises can help improve your posture.