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Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) in Elite Athletes: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

  1. What is Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS)?

    Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) is a common phenomenon experienced by athletes after an intense workout. DOMS is characterized by muscle pain, swelling, tenderness, reduced range of motion, and temporary loss of strength and power in the affected muscles. Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness can cause a delay in training or competition and can hinder athletic performance. Hence, it is essential for elite athletes to understand and manage Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness effectively. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive understanding of DOMS in elite athletes, including its causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment. (1)

  2. Causes of Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS)in Elite Athletes

    1. Eccentric Exercise

      Eccentric exercise involves muscle lengthening under tension, such as when lowering a weight during a bicep curl. This type of exercise can lead to muscle damage and inflammation, which in turn can cause Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness. Eccentric exercise can be particularly challenging for athletes, as it can cause more muscle damage than other types of exercise. (2)

    2. High-Intensity Workouts

      High-intensity workouts can cause Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness due to the significant stress placed on the muscles. This type of training often involves pushing the muscles to their limits, resulting in muscle damage and inflammation. Examples of high-intensity workouts include interval training, sprints, and weight lifting. (2)

    3. Novel Exercises

      Performing new exercises that the body is not accustomed to can result in Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness in elite athletes. When the body is exposed to a new type of exercise, it may not be able to handle the stress as well as it would with a familiar exercise. As a result, the muscles can become damaged and inflamed, leading to Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness. (2)

    4. Dehydration

      Dehydration during training can result in Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness due to decreased blood flow to the muscles. When the body is dehydrated, the blood becomes thicker and flows more slowly, making it more difficult for nutrients and oxygen to reach the muscles. This can increase the risk of muscle damage and inflammation, leading to Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness. (2)

    5. Muscle Damage and Inflammation

      Microscopic muscle damage and inflammation caused by intense workouts can lead to Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness. When the muscles are pushed to their limits, they can become damaged at a microscopic level, which triggers an inflammatory response. This inflammation can cause pain and stiffness, which are characteristic symptoms of Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness. (2)

    6. Genetic Factors

      Genetic factors can play a role in Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness susceptibility in elite athletes. Some athletes may be more prone to developing Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness due to genetic variations that affect their muscle structure or function. For example, some individuals may have a greater number of fast-twitch muscle fibers, which are more prone to damage and inflammation than slow-twitch fibers. Additionally, genetic variations can affect how the body responds to inflammation and repair processes, which can impact the severity and duration of Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness. (2)

    7. Symptoms of Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) in Elite Athletes

      Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness symptoms in elite athletes can be quite debilitating and can affect their ability to perform optimally. Here’s a more detailed explanation of the symptoms:

      Muscle Pain and Stiffness: Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness is characterized by muscle pain and stiffness in the affected areas after an intense workout. This pain is usually described as a dull, aching sensation that sets in within 24-48 hours after the workout. The pain and stiffness can last for a few days, and in severe cases, up to a week or more. (3)

      Swelling and Tenderness: Swelling and tenderness in the affected muscles are also common symptoms of DOMS in elite athletes. The swelling is usually caused by the inflammation that occurs in response to the muscle damage. The tenderness is due to the pressure on the nerves in the affected area. (3)

      Reduced Range of Motion: Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness can result in a decreased range of motion in the affected muscles. This is due to the stiffness and pain that make it difficult to move the muscles freely. In some cases, athletes may experience difficulty with daily activities, such as walking or climbing stairs. (3)

      Loss of Strength and Power: Elite athletes with Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness may experience a temporary loss of strength and power in the affected muscles. This can be a significant problem for athletes who depend on their muscle strength and power for their performance. The loss of strength and power can last for several days, and in some cases, up to a week or more. (3)

  3. Prevention of Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) in Elite Athletes

    1. Gradual Progression in Training

      One effective way to prevent Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness in elite athletes is by gradually increasing the intensity of their workouts. This allows the muscles to adapt to the stress placed on them, reducing the risk of Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness. Sudden increases in training intensity or volume can overload the muscles and lead to DOMS. (4)

    2. Proper Nutrition and Hydration

      Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for preventing Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness in elite athletes. Athletes should consume sufficient amounts of carbohydrates, protein, and electrolytes before, during, and after workouts to maintain optimal muscle function and recovery. Dehydration during training can lead to DOMS due to decreased blood flow to the muscles, so athletes should also ensure they are adequately hydrated. (3)

    3. Adequate Rest and Recovery

      Sufficient rest and recovery time between workouts is crucial for preventing DOMS in elite athletes. Adequate recovery time allows the muscles to repair and rebuild, reducing the risk of Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness. Elite athletes should also ensure they are getting enough sleep, as this is when the body performs essential repair and recovery processes. (3)

    4. Proper Warm-up and Cool-down

      A proper warm-up and cool-down routine can help prepare the muscles for intense exercise and reduce the risk of DOMS. A good warm-up should include dynamic stretching and light cardio to increase blood flow and prepare the muscles for the workout. A cool-down should include static stretching and foam rolling to reduce muscle tension and soreness. (3)

    5. Stretching and Foam Rolling

      Stretching and foam rolling can be effective in preventing Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness in elite athletes. Stretching helps to improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension, while foam rolling can help to break up any knots or adhesions in the muscles, reducing the risk of DOMS. Athletes should aim to stretch and foam roll regularly, both before and after workouts. (3)

    6. Treatment of Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) in Elite Athletes

      Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) can cause significant discomfort and hinder an athlete’s performance. Although DOMS cannot be completely prevented, there are several treatment options available to manage the symptoms and promote recovery.

    7. R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)

      Rest, ice, compression, and elevation, commonly known as R.I.C.E., is a popular treatment option for Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness in elite athletes. Resting the affected muscles can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce pain and inflammation. Compression, such as using compression garments or wraps, can help reduce swelling and promote blood flow to the affected muscles. Elevating the affected area can also help reduce swelling.(6)

    8. Pain Medications

      Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help manage pain and discomfort caused by Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness. However, it is important to follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medications. (6)

    9. Massage Therapy

      Massage therapy can help reduce muscle tension and inflammation associated with Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness in elite athletes. Deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, and myofascial release are some common massage techniques used to alleviate Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness symptoms. (6)

    10. Electric Stimulation Therapy

      Electric stimulation therapy involves the use of electrical impulses to stimulate the affected muscles. This therapy can help reduce muscle soreness and inflammation in elite athletes with Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness. Electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) is a type of electric stimulation therapy that can help improve blood flow and promote muscle recovery. (6)

    11. Light Exercise and Stretching

      Light exercise and stretching can help improve blood flow and reduce muscle tension, thereby reducing Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness in elite athletes. Low-impact activities such as walking, cycling, or swimming can help promote blood flow without putting additional stress on the affected muscles. Stretching can also help improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension. (6)

      It is important to note that although these treatment options can help manage DOMS symptoms, they may not completely eliminate the discomfort associated with DOMS. Additionally, athletes should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any treatment program for Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness. It is also important to identify the underlying causes of DOMS to prevent future occurrences.

  4. Conclusion:

    Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) is a common challenge experienced by elite athletes after an intense workout. The causes of DOMS in elite athletes include eccentric exercise, high-intensity workouts, novel exercises, dehydration, muscle damage, inflammation, and genetic factors. The symptoms of Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness in elite athletes can be quite debilitating and can affect their ability to perform optimally. The prevention of DOMS in elite athletes includes gradual progression in training, proper nutrition and hydration, adequate rest and recovery, proper warm-up and cool-down, and other techniques. Understanding and managing Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness effectively is crucial for athletes to perform at their best and avoid unnecessary injuries.

References:

  1. Cheung, K., Hume, P., & Maxwell, L. (2003). Delayed onset muscle soreness: treatment strategies and performance factors. Sports Medicine, 33(2), 145-164.
  2. Peake, J. M., Neubauer, O., Walsh, N. P., & Simpson, R. J. (2016). Recovery of the immune system after exercise. Journal of Applied Physiology, 122(5), 1077-1087.
  3. Byrne, C., Twist, C., & Eston, R. (2004). Neuromuscular function after exercise-induced muscle damage: Theoretical and applied implications. Sports Medicine, 34(1), 49-69.
  4. Armstrong, R. B. (1984). Mechanisms of exercise-induced delayed onset muscular soreness: a brief review. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 16(6), 529-538.
  5. Hody, S., Croisier, J. L., & Bury, T. (2013). Rogues’ gallery of myofibers: inflammatory cells populate damaged muscle fibers. Frontiers in physiology, 4, 379.
  6. Peake, J. M., & Neubauer, O. (2017). Distinguishing exercise-related and non-exercise-related delayed onset muscle soreness: Therapeutic options. Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology, 6(2), 121-137. https://doi.org/10.1037/spy0000090
Team PainAssist
Team PainAssist
Written, Edited or Reviewed By: Team PainAssist, Pain Assist Inc. This article does not provide medical advice. See disclaimer
Last Modified On:April 8, 2023

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