Introduction to Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness

At times, DOMS is so severe that it is mistaken for a muscle strain. The nastiness starts after a bit of a delay, often after sleeping, and then continues for 24 to 72 hours hence it’s called Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness. DOMS is one of the main things that discourages people from training. As most couldn’t power through the pain.

What triggers Delayed On Set Muscle Soreness?

Develops after excessive and unaccustomed exercise and other physical stresses outside your normal range of intensity — anything you aren’t used to. Typically, if that exercise has an eccentric movement. DOMS is caused by myofibril tears. Which results in an inflammatory response with intramuscular fluid and electrolyte shifts.

Symptoms of DOMS to watch out for:

  • Reduced range of motion
  • Pain and stiffness when moving
  • Swelling in the affected muscles
  • Muscle fatigue
  • Short-term loss of muscle strength

How can we treat DOMS?

DOMS should be treated initially with active recovery. Even though you feel sore, it’s best if you engage in active recovery – going for walks, light cardio or foam rolling. This would increase blood flow and oxygen to the tissue, helping the natural healing process.
 
Pressure garments have been shown to provide a reduction in severity of DOMS. By increasing blood and lymphatic flow to the muscle, improving performance and shorten recovery time.
 
Avoid aggressive exercise during the recovery phase. This is due to the muscles reduced capacity to cope with shock absorption, in-coordination, altered muscle recruitment patterns, reduced strength and contraction intensity.

Preventive Measures

Don’t rush the process! Gradually build up the amount of exercise you do in your program, by increasing your sets, repetitions and load by 10% per week.
 
Ensure you do a proper cool down after your workout! This is to provide the body with a smooth transition from exercise back to a steady state of rest. Bringing down your heart rate and at the same time, return muscles to their optimal length-tension.
Book a session with us now and enjoy a private space for you to do your active recovery!

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