pegal

Pegal is a term used in Malay and Indonesian languages to describe a sensation of muscle ache or soreness, typically temporary and not a disease in itself. It covers a range of experiences from mild stiffness after exertion to general body aches described as pegal-pegal. The reduplication pegal-pegal is common in everyday speech and refers to widespread soreness.

Etymology: The word comes from Malay/Indonesian vocabulary; precise origin is unclear. It is used across Malaysia, Indonesia, and sometimes in Brunei and Singapore.

Causes: Common causes include physical overuse, repetitive strain, poor posture, dehydration, cold weather, and aging. It can also accompany illnesses such as viral infections or certain chronic conditions that cause muscle or joint pain.

Symptoms: The typical sensation is a dull, diffuse ache in muscles or joints, often with stiffness, tenderness to touch, heaviness, or a feeling of tiredness. Symptoms may be localized to a specific area or affect many parts of the body.

Diagnosis and care: Pegal is usually diagnosed through symptom history. If pain persists beyond a few days, is severe, is accompanied by swelling, fever, numbness, chest pain, or follows a serious injury, seek medical evaluation.

Management and prevention: Rest and gentle stretching, warm baths or massages, adequate hydration and balanced electrolytes, and, if appropriate, over-the-counter analgesics following local guidance. Regular physical activity, proper stretching, posture awareness, and adequate sleep can help prevent recurrence.