Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) - ansariphysio

Delayed onset muscle soreness

From the theoretical point of view, the term (DOMS) delayed onset muscle soreness is an exercise-induced muscle tenderness or stiffness that occurs 24 to 48 hours after vigorous exercise.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          “Kisner”

One of the most significant term or a condition from the theoretical as well as a practical point of view is ‘DOMS’. It is well known and deal with the physiotherapist especially sports physical therapists,  after a vigorous or overload exercise program, it is best felt by the participant and professional bodybuilders because it appears after 24 to 48 hours after vigorous resisted exercise and also occurs after muscular overexertion.

Anatomically it is found in muscular belly part or myotendinous junction; in the subcategory of isotonic exercise the best   significant movement action during exercise is concentric and eccentric muscular contractions these are the causative movement to cause most severe DOMS symptoms, it disappears after a course of 10 to 14 days.

Theoretically, there is lots of theory to prove the cause or causative factors about DOMS some of these are; 

• Metabolic waste accumulation theory (afterward it is disapproved as a cause of DOMS).
• The muscle spasm theory.

Prevention and treatment: - The below-mentioned advice is not a specific treatment but an opinion in clinical and fitness programs.

To reduce the effect of DOMS the most important part of the exercise is the intensity and volume of exercise, these two regimens should be gradually increased.

·        Performing the low-intensity warm-up and cool-down activities.

·        Stretching of the exercised muscle before and after vigorous exercise.

·        The best preventive measure of DOMS mentioned is the regular routine of exercise.

·        Electrical stimulation in the reduction of soreness reported to be effective in some cases.

·        Topical salicylate which provides an analgesic effect may also reduce the severity of the speed of recovery from DOMS related symptoms.