Muscle pain can present as sprains, strains, rheumatism or arthritis.
Sprains occur when the ligaments or capsule of a joint is damaged.
Strains occur when the muscle itself is torn or damaged.
Stiff and painful muscles may occur simply as a result of strenuous and unaccustomed work such as gardening, decorating or exercise.
Rheumatic or arthritic pain is the result of wear and tear on joints over the years. The symptoms vary from person to person and can include pain, stiffness, fatigue, deformation and immobility.

Care needs to be taken to exclude a fracture in diagnosis.