What should you know about muscle pain after rhabdomyolysis?

Rhabdomyolysis involves injury to muscle cells and release of muscle contents into the bloodstream. Soreness, weakness and reduced exercise tolerance can remain while injured tissue recovers. Similar soreness after exercise is often milder and follows a predictable activity pattern, but it should not be used to dismiss symptoms after rhabdomyolysis.

Pain that is worsening, returning after activity, or accompanied by weakness may mean the muscle has not recovered or has been injured again. Blood and urine tests can help a clinician assess muscle injury and kidney function.

Follow the treating clinician’s instructions about fluids, medicines, activity and repeat testing. Do not restart intense exercise simply because soreness has eased. Resume activity gradually and stop if pain, weakness, swelling or unusual fatigue increases. Avoid self-prescribing supplements or anti-inflammatory medicines without checking, because some choices may be unsuitable when kidney function is being monitored. Keep a note of urine colour, urine amount, pain pattern and activity changes to discuss at review.

Seek urgent care for very dark or cola-coloured urine, much less urine, increasing swelling, severe muscle pain, marked weakness, confusion, fainting or repeated vomiting. Contact your medical team promptly if symptoms return after exercise or if you cannot follow the hydration or activity plan. Emergency symptoms should not wait for a routine appointment.

Ask when repeat blood or urine tests are needed, how to judge readiness for exercise, which medicines to avoid, and which changes in urine, pain or strength should prompt immediate review.