People generally experience DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness) several hours after an intense workout, and it typically lasts for a few days afterwards.
Many people who go through DOMS enjoy the feeling, as it signifies that they’ve put a lot of work into their body, and the feeling of soreness is actually quite invigorating. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case for everyone, and sometimes the pain causes them to have difficulties sleeping during the peak of soreness.
Here are a few ways of dealing with DOMS or muscle pain in general, in order to ease some of the soreness:
Hot-Cold Contrast Showers
One of the most known relief methods for muscle pain is to take showers that alternate between hot and cold every 20 and 10 seconds respectively. These generally relieve blood flow, as well as reduce inflammation in the muscles.
Foam Roller/Massages
Foam Rollers are a cheap way of massaging sore areas after a long and intense workout, but usually require a fair amount of effort to use to get any relief out of.
On the other hand, massages from a professional are probably the best way to get relief, although they are fairly expensive for their services.
Light Physical Activity
While it might be painful to use, a sore muscle can feel better after some light activity such as a cool-down walk, or some stretching.
Activities like these increase blood flow and minimize soreness, but be sure not to go too hard with the activity, as you may end up injuring yourself.
Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
If all else fails, anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDS, can relieve some of the pain from DOMS temporarily. It’s important to note that this doesn’t help the weakness that you experience, only the pain, so your lack of range of motion won’t be fixed.
