Body aches and muscle pain—also known as myalgia—are common symptoms experienced during a COVID-19 infection. These aches can range from mild discomfort to more intense soreness and may affect various parts of the body. COVID-related body aches are often due to the immune system’s inflammatory response to the virus.

Why Does COVID Cause Body Aches?

COVID-19 can trigger muscle and joint pain as a result of inflammation caused by the virus. When the body detects the presence of SARS-CoV-2, it responds by activating the immune system. One of the key elements in this response is a substance called interleukin-6 (IL-6), which contributes to increased inflammation. Elevated IL-6 levels can cause pain in muscles and joints.

What Do COVID Body Aches Feel Like?

Muscle pain linked to COVID-19 typically presents as tenderness when the muscle is touched or pain when it is moved. While the discomfort may resemble soreness after physical activity, virus-related pain tends to be more widespread rather than localized. People commonly report aching in areas such as the lower back, legs, shoulders, and knees.

How Long Do COVID Body Aches Last?

Muscle and joint pain can begin before or during a COVID infection and may even be among the first symptoms to appear—sometimes preceding respiratory symptoms like coughing or nasal congestion.

The duration of this pain can vary from a few days to several weeks during the course of illness. In some cases, individuals experience lingering or new muscle pain even after recovering from the initial infection. This is often referred to as long COVID, where symptoms persist for weeks or months after recovery.

How To Treat COVID-Related Body Aches

There are various treatment options and home remedies to manage body aches associated with COVID-19. Many symptoms will improve as the body recovers, but for ongoing discomfort, you can try the following:

  • Stay well-hydrated to support joint health

  • Get adequate rest and quality sleep

  • Use the RICE method: rest, ice, compression, and elevation for affected areas (when possible)

  • Practice gentle stretching or low-impact exercise to reduce stiffness

  • Take over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen, aspirin, or muscle relaxants

  • Use supportive tools like heating pads or cold compresses for symptom relief

Keeping up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations may also reduce the severity of symptoms, including body aches, if you contract the virus.

Other Causes of Muscle Pain

Muscle aches are not exclusive to COVID-19 and can also result from a variety of other health conditions or factors, including:

  • Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., low potassium or calcium levels)

  • Fibromyalgia

  • Physical injuries or trauma

  • Autoimmune diseases like lupus

  • Muscle overuse or repetitive strain

  • Emotional stress or physical tension

When To Contact a Healthcare Provider

If you suspect your muscle pain is related to COVID-19, take a test as soon as possible—especially if you’re experiencing additional symptoms such as fever, cough, or loss of taste or smell.

You should seek medical attention if:

  • Pain does not improve or worsens despite home treatments

  • Pain interferes with daily function or movement

  • You experience any of the following emergency symptoms:

    • Shortness of breath or trouble breathing

    • Chest pain or persistent pressure

    • Confusion or trouble staying awake

    • Pale, blue, or gray skin, lips, or nail beds

    • Vomiting

    • Stiff neck or high fever

    • Difficulty swallowing

    • Decreased urination

These signs may indicate a more serious condition and require immediate care.

Preventing the Spread of COVID

If you test positive for COVID-19, follow these steps to protect others:

  • Stay home and isolate while experiencing symptoms

  • Avoid contact with others, especially those at high risk

  • Contact a healthcare provider if you have an existing condition or are immunocompromised

  • Monitor your symptoms and seek medical help if they worsen

  • Wear a mask if you need to be around others

A Quick Review

Body aches and muscle pain are common symptoms associated with COVID-19. These pains can start early in the infection and may continue during or after recovery. Treatment includes rest, hydration, stretching, and over-the-counter medications. While muscle soreness may resemble post-exercise fatigue, COVID-related pain tends to be more generalized.

If symptoms persist or worsen, especially in those at higher risk, consult a healthcare provider for appropriate care. Testing and early treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.