Review Articles

Delayed onset muscle soreness: No pain, no gain? The truth behind this adage

Phathokuhle C. Zondi, D. C. Janse van Rensburg, C. C. Grant, A. Jansen van Rensburg
South African Family Practice | Vol 57, No 3 : May/June| a4148 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/safp.v57i3.4148 | ©
Submitted: 16 September 2014 | Published: 01 May 2015

About the author(s)

Phathokuhle C. Zondi,
D. C. Janse van Rensburg,
C. C. Grant,
A. Jansen van Rensburg, Section Sport Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa

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Abstract

The purpose of this article is to provide brief insight into delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), a phenomenon that is often experienced by recreational and elite athletes. The negative implications of DOMS include pain, decreased motivation to continue training, and decreased performance. While performance issues may be more relevant to the elite athlete, pain and decreased motivation are particularly relevant to recreational athletes wishing to sustain a regular level of physical activity. The article is aimed at general practitioners (GPs) who may encounter athletes presenting with DOMS, and who will benefit from understanding the proposed mechanisms, signs and symptoms of the condition. Numerous researchers have hypothesised that certain interventions may prevent or minimise the symptoms thereof, and all GPs could benefit from understanding the available options for athletes, and the scientific evidence that supports these options.

Keywords

delayed onset muscle soreness; mechanism; symptoms; treatment; athletes; management

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