Did 20 push-ups and was sore all over the next day

Experiencing body aches the day after doing 20 push-ups may be caused by overexertion, improper technique, or lumbar muscle strain, among other reasons. Appropriate measures should be taken based on the specific situation. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Overexertion

Push-ups are a form of physical exercise that engages multiple muscle groups, including those in the shoulders, legs, and lower back. For individuals who do not regularly exercise, performing push-ups may lead to overexertion. This can result in excessive lactic acid buildup in the muscles, causing generalized body soreness the following day after completing 20 push-ups. This type of soreness typically resolves on its own after a period of time.

2. Improper Technique

If the push-up technique is incorrect during exercise, abnormal stress may be placed on the arms, thighs, or other muscle groups, potentially leading to muscle strain or injury and resulting in the aforementioned symptoms. It is recommended to receive guidance from a trained professional before performing push-ups to ensure proper form and maximize exercise effectiveness while minimizing injury risk.

3. Lumbar Muscle Strain

Individuals with pre-existing lumbar muscle strain may experience increased stress on the lower back muscles during push-ups, potentially triggering non-infectious inflammation and causing a recurrence of lumbar muscle strain symptoms. Inflammatory mediators may also contribute to the development of body aches. Patients are advised to consult a physician for appropriate treatment, which may include medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules or diclofenac diethylamine gel.

In addition, conditions such as malnutrition, osteoporosis, or rheumatoid arthritis could also contribute to these symptoms. If pain persists for an extended period without improvement, it is recommended to seek medical attention at a hospital as soon as possible.