Muscle soreness, otherwise known as DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness) is very common among people who live an active lifestyle. Poor posture and lack of exercise can also lead to poor physical health. Muscle stiffness and aches don’t typically last long, but in the meantime, many people try to alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with sore muscles. This article outlines a handful of ways to do that.
Health Supplements – CBD:
Uptake of health supplements is increasing as more people become mindful of ways they can better look after their health. The us of CBD is on the rise as a result too. CBD is one of the two most prominent chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, it does not cause psychotic highs but has been researched extensively for its multitude of health benefits. One of which is its pain relieving effects. It’s thought the pain-relieving effects of CBD stem from its interaction with our endocannabinoid (ECS) and pain-sensing systems. CBD is often used for pain relief associated with chronic conditions like arthritis and muscle soreness experienced with injury or overexertion. For muscle soreness, it’s best to use a CBD infused balm which can be applied directly to the skin. However, CBD capsules UK, edibles, oil and vapes are all other examples of how you can take CBD.
Gentle Stretching & Exercise
It’s essential to take it easy when you are experiencing muscle soreness. Though it’s tempting not to move when experiencing muscle pain, engaging in light stretching or exercise like walking, swimming, and yoga can keep the muscle in motion and relieve pain. Light exercise that keeps the body moving will mean more blood will get pumped through the body and your muscles. Increased blood flow will provide your muscles with the ability to recover from muscle soreness much quicker.
Massage Therapy
Massage is used in recovery due to it improving blood circulation around the body. You’d be surprised at the amount of benefit a massage can provide the body, let alone your emotional wellbeing too. Increased blood flow will help replenish the sore area with increased oxygen and nutrients. Therefore, massage of the specific regions, such as a neck and shoulder massage, exist. It allows you to receive a massage that focuses on pain points. Massage helps relax the muscle tissue, which reduces painful contractions and tightness. The feel-good factor of massage is the release of feel-good chemicals like oxytocin and dopamine in the brain. These chemicals are our body’s natural pain relievers and anti-depressants.
Take Time Out for a Salt Bath
Have you ever heard of an Epsom salt bath? Used in the bath, it breaks down into magnesium and sulphate when added to warm bathwater. Soaking in a bath will allow your body and sore muscles to absorb the magnesium from the salts through the skin. This will help the sore muscles relax and reduce inflammation. Taking a relaxing bath will provide you with the all-important self-care that’s needed in response to sore muscles. This will be an excellent opportunity to unwind and quiet the mental chatter we often experience in our busy working days. Therefore, there are both psychological and physical benefits to be had from a relaxing bath time.
Over the counter (OTC) pain medication
If you have tried several natural fixes for sore muscles and are still experiencing pain, many individuals opt for strong OTC pain medication or topical creams. Examples include ibuprofen and paracetamol, but there are other stronger options you can get. These are easy options that are effective in most cases. However, strong doses can become addictive for many, and some can lead to unwanted side effects in the body. Therefore, more people are taking an interest in non-meditative routes to fixing muscle soreness.