What is Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness Treatment?

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What is delayed onset muscle soreness? Delayed onset muscle soreness or otherwise known as DOMS, is a type of body condition that is characterized by pain and stiffness in the muscles several hours or evens days post unaccustomed or rigorous exercise. This is likewise known as the muscle fever. DOMS is usually felt 24 to 72 hours post exercise. This is actually considered as an effect of muscle damage that is due to eccentric exercise. This results to the presence of soreness as a way for the muscle to adapt in case such exercise is repeated in order to prevent damage. But how can we stop, if not, lessen the effects of DOMS? What are the different interventions as well as the delayed onset muscle soreness treatment?

This type of muscle soreness is usually perceived as a dull and aching pain in the affected muscles. This is usually combined with stiffness as well as tenderness when toughed or moved. In other words, the pain in DOMS is only perceived once the muscle is stretched, put under pressure or is contracted. However, if the body is at rest, no signs of pain are normally felt. In addition to this, the onset of these symptoms also varies from one person to another. Most cases have symptoms peaked after 24 to 72 hours from exercising. This usually subsides or disappears after 5 to 7 days.

Usually delayed onset muscle soreness is caused by eccentric or unaccustomed exercise. This includes long durations of exercises that contain stretching or lengthening contractions. Like what is said above, relief usually occurs post 72 hours from exercise. However, certain methods and interventions that increase blood flow to the area help in soothing the aches faster. This includes hot baths, saunas, massages and also low intensity work.

So what are the other treatments for DOMS? Usually DOMS disappears on its own, even without doing anything about it. However, continuing the exercise can also be beneficial in suppressing the soreness. As we all know, exercise usually increases our threshold and tolerance of pain. This is the reason why exercise-induced analgesia is very effective in combating the symptoms of DOMS. However, if the pain already becomes intolerable, then analgesic medication and pain killers can be taken with doctor’s recommendation. These are just some of the things that we need to learn about delayed onset muscle soreness, which includes its causes and treatment.