DOMS Muscle Soreness After Exercise

DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness) is a type of muscle pain that occurs after exercise, something many people are familiar with. It typically develops around 6-12 hours after physical activity and gradually subsides within about 7 days.DOMS is commonly experienced by beginners or individuals who have recently increased the intensity of their workouts. It often occurs when new muscle groups are engaged that have not been used before. This condition can also arise from other types of activities, especially those involving muscle lengthening (eccentric movements) or sudden, forceful actions.

 

Symptoms of DOMS can be recognized by muscle pain accompanied by stiffness and tightness, along with tenderness when pressing on the affected area. Muscle strength may temporarily decrease before gradually recovering, and mild swelling may also occur. DOMS is not dangerous and is considered a normal part of muscle development. Although the exact cause has not been definitively established, some theories suggest it results from microscopic muscle fiber damage or mild inflammation occurring at a safe level within the affected muscles.

 

Therefore, if the muscle pain is truly caused by DOMS, no specific treatment is necessary, as the symptoms will gradually improve on their own. If the pain is severe or bothersome, over-the-counter medications such as Paracetamol or muscle relaxants may be used, along with resting the affected muscles for 2-3 days. However, if the pain occurs immediately after physical activity, it may be due to an injury rather than DOMS. In such cases, it is advisable to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

 

Treatment for DOMS can be managed in several ways, including the use of medications, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), and physical therapy techniques such as electrical stimulation or cold compresses. In many cases, symptoms will resolve naturally within a few days without any specific treatment.

Prevention of DOMS is relatively simple. It includes stretching before and after exercise, properly warming up the body, gradually increasing and decreasing workout intensity, and engaging in regular strength training to improve muscle conditioning.

 

 

Articles By : Dr. Pyong

source : Pyong Rehabilitation Group

 Pyong Rehabilitation Group

**Translated and compiled by ArokaGO Content Team