Understanding Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) and How to Recover Faster

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If you’re an athlete or workout enthusiast, you’ve likely experienced Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS). This common post-exercise soreness peaks 2-4 days after intense workouts and is often mistakenly attributed to lactic acid buildup. However, DOMS is actually caused by muscle inflammation and micro-tears.

Here’s how your body recovers, and ways to speed up healing:

  1. Move – Gentle cardio, like walking, helps flush out excess fluids from muscle tissue.

  2. Therapy – Soft tissue therapies like dynamic cupping, massage, or vibration therapy reduce pain.

  3. Hydrate – Keeping muscles hydrated accelerates healing.

Have questions about recovery? Contact me today!

Helping you feel your best with health + humor,
Dr. Jess