When you’ve had a good workout or worked hard at the gym, you know that you’re up for a tough time the next day because in most cases it is going to hurt the next day. The reason for this that your muscle fibers tear while working out and are in need of rest. This is good news in fact, since it means that you’ve pushed your body to its threshold and initiated the growth and repair process that your muscles are going to undertake to reach a stronger state. There are times when this pain is a part of the lifestyle and you get used to it but there are other times when it’s just too much and you end up struggling to function after a good workout. Remember that leg day when you squatted 200 pounds and couldn’t get out of bed the next day? Yes, that’s what we’re talking about!
I think it’s time for you to meet DOMS – Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness. This is created by the microscopic muscle tears that occur when you work out. While there is no real treatment for DOMS, since it’s a good sign and you won’t want to stop working hard because of some pain now will you? (Considering its good old muscle soreness and not some sort of a tear or strain in the ligament!).
Though there are certain preventive measures you can so that you reduce the pain that is ultimately inevitable –
Gentle Stretches – When your muscles are in recovery mode, they tend to tighten up and stiffen up. Light and gentle stretches can reduce the pain.
Again, Gentle massages – Gently massaging the sore area with hot oil could be very relieving and increase the blood flow to those parts and shorten your stint with DOMS.
Warm Bath – Just like the hot oil, warm baths will also be helpful in relieving the pain and it’s probably the easiest of the lot. Just stand under the hot shower and try it for yourself!
Hot & Cold – Try this, shock your muscle by applying an ice pack for 15 minutes followed by a cold pack for another 15 minutes. Works wonders!