Muscle soreness can be a frustrating experience. It is not uncommon to feel pain after exercising, and the cause can vary from exercise to injury. But there are ways to ease sore muscles, from home remedies to specialized treatment.
One of the most effective methods for easing sore muscles is to get a massage. Massage helps increase blood flow to the affected area and aids in recovery. You can use a commercial massage service or ask a friend for their assistance.
Another way to soothe sore muscles is to drink plenty of water. Water helps remove waste from the muscle. It also replenishes lost fluids. A nice warm bath can help with sore muscles, too.
There are many things that can ease sore muscles, but the best one is to avoid overexerting yourself. The body needs to rest in order to rebuild and repair.
Taking vitamins and supplements can also help reduce muscle soreness, but don’t do too much of it. Some foods, like nut butters and fish, have protein that aids in the recovery process. This is especially true after intense exercise.
Stretching is another trick for sore muscles. Hold a stretch for a few seconds, then relax. Stretching helps tense muscles and prevents muscle spasms. Stand with your feet apart, then slowly extend your legs behind you and lift your head up.
For the most part, it is difficult to beat a good old-fashioned brisk walk. This will not only ease sore muscles, but will also boost your heart health. While a brisk walk will not necessarily make your muscles feel better immediately, it can do the trick over time.
You can also try a hot bath. Some athletes swear by this method for easing sore muscles. Warm water relaxes the muscles and allows blood to circulate more effectively.
Using a heating pad is another quick fix. Heating pads are available at most drug stores. However, it should be noted that they should never be placed directly on the skin. Also, you should try to keep the temperature cool and not too warm. If you have a fever, avoid using a heat pad to avoid spreading your infection.
Lastly, there are plenty of over-the-counter medications and prescription drugs that are designed to ward off muscle soreness. These include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen (Tylenol). Be sure to read the label carefully, though, since NSAIDs can be dangerous and may cause gastrointestinal bleeding.
Hopefully, you have learned how to ease sore muscles and the best ways to do it. But if you need additional guidance, talk to a professional. Your doctor or sports physician can give you the best advice on how to improve your health and help you find relief from sore muscles. After a workout, you might want to try a light stretching routine to help you avoid stiffness the next day.
In general, muscle soreness is a sign that your body is trying to tell you that it needs more rest and less activity. Sore muscles are usually a side effect of an intense workout, and will eventually pass.