HEALTHYFITNESS
Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS)
A phenomenon that is often seen in athletes who engage in high-intensity exercise as well as beginners who participate sporadically in athletic activities and put in a lot of effort have as a result sore muscles which is called "Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness" (DOMS).
It occurs very often in athletes during the preparation period as they return to intensive training after a period of reduced physical activity. It can also occur when athletes try a different type of workout for the first time, especially at high intensity. Finally, it should be noted that it occurs mainly after eccentric contraction training.
This type of muscle stiffness or achiness is normal, doesn't last long, and is actually a sign of your improving fitness.
But what is delayed muscle pain?
It is a familiar experience for all athletes and non-athletes. It is described as sore muscles after physical activity. It appears after 24 - 72 hours and weakens after 5 - 7 days. (Szymanski, 2001).
There are several possible theories about the mechanism of DOMS:
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Muscular spasm
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Connective tissue damage
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Muscle damage (destruction of muscle fibers)
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Inflammation
DOMS is characterized by a sore muscles, pain, a wide range of motion, a decrease in the efficiency of the brain, and an increase in the level of muscle enzymes in the bloodstream, mainly creatinine kinase (an enzyme that is an indicator of muscle damage). This is usually due to a buildup of fluid in the tissues resulting in swelling. Consequently, the body's immune system reacts, creating inflammation inside the muscles.