Breathing Sensations and Muscle Pain After Exercise - Internal Medicine

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After engaging in physical activity, especially after a long period of inactivity, it is common to experience muscle soreness and unusual sensations in the body. Your experience of muscle pain, particularly in the arms and back, is likely a result of delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), which typically occurs after unaccustomed exercise. This is a normal physiological response as your muscles adapt to the new demands placed on them.
When you perform exercises like push-ups, your muscles, especially those in the arms, chest, and back, are being worked in ways they are not accustomed to, leading to micro-tears in the muscle fibers. This is a natural part of the muscle strengthening process, and while it can be uncomfortable, it is not necessarily indicative of a serious injury. If the soreness persists for more than a week or worsens, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

Regarding your breathing sensations, it is not uncommon to feel a variety of sensations in the chest when you take deep breaths, especially after physical exertion. When you take a deep breath, your diaphragm and intercostal muscles (the muscles between your ribs) work to expand your lungs, which can create a feeling of fullness or pressure in the chest. This sensation can sometimes feel like the bones or structures in your chest are moving, but it is primarily the expansion of the lungs and the rib cage that you are feeling.
The feeling of your chest "inflating" during deep breathing is a normal response, and it should not cause pain. If you experience sharp pain, difficulty breathing, or any other concerning symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention. The sensations you described, such as feeling like air is rushing into your lungs, are typically benign and part of the body’s normal response to increased physical activity.

As for the discomfort in your right back, it could indeed be related to muscle strain or poor posture during your exercises. Ensuring that you maintain proper form while exercising is crucial to prevent strain on your muscles and joints. If you continue to experience pain in your back, consider consulting a physical therapist or a healthcare provider who can assess your posture and provide guidance on proper exercise techniques.

It is also worth noting that the fear of developing conditions like pneumonia or pneumothorax (collapsed lung) from exercise is generally unfounded, especially if you are otherwise healthy and not experiencing severe symptoms. Pneumonia typically arises from infections, while pneumothorax is usually associated with trauma or underlying lung disease, not from normal exercise or deep breathing.

In summary, the muscle soreness and breathing sensations you are experiencing are likely normal responses to your recent increase in physical activity. Continue to listen to your body, allow for adequate rest and recovery, and gradually increase your exercise intensity. If you have any persistent or worsening symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical advice for further evaluation.