Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness Impact Proper Joint Movement & Mobility

Research has shown that delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) or muscle cramps has various effects on the kinematics of running gait. These changes are thought to be the body’s compensatory mechanism for the reduced range of motion of the joints following DOMS. The available range of motion of the ankle, knee, and hip joints is essential for athletes to perform optimal training intensity, primarily to obtain optimal running gait. The average and maximum range of joint motion are necessary to prevent and reduce the risk of sports injury.

Delayed onset muscle soreness can lead to painful joints, and in persons with recent flare-ups, it can cause degenerative changes in muscles, ligaments, and joints. Contact Chiropractic Specialty Center® today to prevent the harmful effects of delayed muscle issues on joints and kinematics (movement and mobility).

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Downhill running is an example of eccentric training activity that requires the contraction of elongated quadriceps muscles to maintain the knees’ stability. It has been shown that the maximum ankle dorsiflexion and plantarflexion during the support phase, full knee joint flexion in swing and support phases, and maximum hip flexion in the touchdown phase are reduced post-downhill running. The ability of the knee and hip joints to absorb shock is reduced, and the ankle needs to compensate for this by increasing the range of dorsiflexion during the support phase. Abnormal stress will be placed on the ankle joint, leading to an increased risk of injury at the ankle joint. 

Delayed onset muscle soreness or DOMS results in a shortening and tightness of the connective muscle tissue, leading to a reduced range of joint motion and joint stiffness. Swelling of the affected muscles or connective tissues is an acute inflammatory response to muscle damage or injury. 

For more information or inquiries, please contact Chiropractic Specialty Center® at 03-2093 1000.