The effects of a specific exercise intervention on Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness, DOMS, and neuromuscular function

Abstract

Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) is a common phenomenon experienced by individuals who perform unaccustomed exercise that typically involves an eccentric component. Soreness peaks between 24 and 48 hours post-exercise with residual soreness usually remaining beyond that time frame. Negative implications of DOMS include minimal to severe soreness, the inability to continue safe and effective training or performance, biomechanical alterations predisposing individuals to injury, and decreases in strength and power. There have been many clinical and therapeutic interventions utilized in an attempt to minimize DOMS and the negative impact on athletic performance. Exercise, therapeutic massage, cryotherapy, ultrasound, and anti-inflammatory drugs have all been tested as methods of determining an effective intervention strategy. The present research attempted to minimize the negative impacts that DOMS has on neuromuscular function by utilizing a specific exercise program as a treatment intervention. Twenty females between the ages of 19 and 35 participated in the present research. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)