Most people are concerned when they feel pain and stiffness is occurring in certain parts of their body. Almost everyone will experience these feelings at some point in time, and this why it is essential to understand why it is happening and how to relieve it.
Comprehending these issues will also help to avoid pain and soreness as well. The following is a closer look at the science behind soreness.
Why Do Muscles and Joints Get Sore?
As people age, the body tends to tighten up. This leads to complaints of soreness. This pain can seem to lie deep within the bones, however, most pain starts with the muscles and connective tissues that surround joints.
As people age, they tend to become more and more inactive. A sedentary lifestylewill cause ligaments and tendons to become less stretchable, so when they are pushed the their limits, a small amount of damage can occur. Muscle pain can strike after a workout.
When a person takes part in an intense routine or exercise, muscles can become damaged. Small tears can occur in muscle fibers or connective tissue, and as the body begins the repair process, pain and stiffness may result.
Soreness is usually felt about 24 hours after a workout and is knows as delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Through clinical laboratory science, DOMS has been studied in detail, giving athletes and trainers the necessary information to understand and relieve the pain.
How to Relieve Pain and Stiffness
When muscles and joints become sore and stiff, massage may give some relief. Muscles usually get sore after a workout because the body has burned energy and a shortage of oxygen has occurred. Muscles will stiffen due to low blood circulation. Massage has the ability to improve this circulation and lower pain. A simple rubbing motion should provide some much needed relief.
Hot and cold compresses can also relieve pain and stiffness. Athletes who feel soreness after a strenuous workout can apply a cold compress for about fifteen minutes every six hours. This should lower swelling and inflammation. After the swelling is completely gone, a person can apply a hot compress for a few minutes. This should ease sore muscles.
When inflammation is at its worst, there are medications like ibuprofen and aspirin that will lower muscle pain. There are also various creams that can be rubbed over sore muscles, which will help to lower pain and inflammation.
How to Avoid Muscle Pain and Stiffness
Individuals who have experienced stiffness and soreness understand the uncomfortable feelings that they must endure. There are ways, however, to preemptively combat soreness. It is always best to keep the body well hydrated. Drinking enough water will be a great guard against muscle pain. It is also helpful to get the proper amount of rest.
Sleep allows the body to heal and become ready for physical activity. Eating a proper diet will also help to prevent muscle soreness and joint pain, as the proper balance of carbs, protein, and fats will keep the body in top shape. When exercising, it is essential to perform a proper warm up. Getting the body ready for activity will help to prevent damage to muscles.
Stretching or squats will be a good way to get ready for exercise. Cooling down will also help to prevent muscle soreness. Most people will experience aches and stiffness. It is often a result of over activity, injury, or old age. Properly warming up before exercise, staying hydrated, and eating well will help to prevent pain from occurring.
If it becomes a problem, it may help to treat the problem with ice/heat, massage, or anti-inflammatory medicine. Maintaining good health is not difficult, but may require a bit of effort, and in the end, the body may stay pain free.