Gardening and yard work can be enjoyable ways to stay active, but several hours of digging, planting, lifting, bending, trimming, or carrying can leave the muscles feeling sore and uncomfortable. This is especially common when someone spends more time working outdoors than usual or performs movements their body is not accustomed to. Muscle discomfort after gardening may affect the lower back,...

Muscle tightness can feel like stiffness, pulling, cramping, or a constant feeling that a particular muscle is difficult to relax. It may develop after physical activity, an awkward movement, prolonged sitting, minor strains, or certain musculoskeletal conditions. When muscle tightness becomes painful or interferes with normal movement, a healthcare professional may consider different treatment...