Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness

Deconditioning-related soreness is described as diffuse, muscle-based, vague, and consistent with delayed onset muscle soreness after unfamiliar work. DOMS is produced by the mechanical disruption to muscle fibers that occurs during eccentric exercise. Soreness may reflect nervous system sensitivity rather than simply tissue damage after unfamiliar loading. Delayed onset muscle soreness may involve spinal cord neural changes and protective central sensitization. Eccentric movements generate more delayed-onset muscle soreness than concentric movements due to higher tissue disruption. Diffuse soreness across a muscle region after training may be repeated at lower volume within the source’s framework. Movement may help reduce soreness, but volume may need to be lowered so the person can tolerate the work.