Making the time for a workout program and setting realistic goals can be challenging enough, but add to that the sore muscles that can come with any exercise routine, and it may be difficult to keep sight of your goals. Any kind of strenuous activity can leave you with sore muscles and in most cases this is just a symptom of your muscles adapting to the new activity.
While post workout soreness may be common, there are several things you can do to ease those aching muscles. The simplest thing to do is to take it easy for a day or two. Continue with light exercise such as walking. Keeping active will help provide some relief and keep the muscles fluid. Also, concentrate on working alternate muscle groups giving the overworked ones time to heal.
The use of heat to treat sore muscles is a popular and effective remedy. This can be anything from a long relaxing soak in the tub to the use of a heating pad. The new portable heat wraps are great for this and make it easy to apply warmth to any part of the body. The heat increases blood flow and helps ease pain. Also try an epsom salt bath to sooth those aches and pains.
Drink plenty of water. Dehydration can cause sore muscles, especially after a strenuous workout. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day to keep your body hydrated. All the rage these days is the very popular sports drinks but for most people, water is the best choice. Sports drinks don't hydrate the body any better than water and often contain a lot of sugar.
Getting Past the Pain
Head for the medicine cabinet. Anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxin can help relieve sore muscles. Of course check with a health care professional before taking any non-steroid anti-inflammatory drug. Many people also rely on mentholated sports rubs to ease sore muscles as these give a warming sensation to the affected area.
Massage is also an affective and relaxing method for relieving sore muscles. A massage helps improve blood flow to the muscles to aid in easing the stiffness and swelling caused by overworking your body.
It is important to remember that there is a difference between a sore muscle caused by exercise and that of severe or long term pain caused by a muscle injury. Usually the discomfort from overworked muscles will only last a day or two but if the pain prevents you from performing routine activities, severely limits your range of motion or persists for more than a few days it's time to seek medical advice.
Don't give up. Sore muscles can be a sign that your exercise routine is working and that you are on the right track. Success won't happen over night but in time the soreness will disappear and you can be encouraged that you are developing a healthier and stronger body.
