What Causes Muscle Soreness?

What Causes Muscle Soreness?

11th Grade · Physical Education · 45 min

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Learning Objective

I can explain the physiological causes of delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS).

  • 1

    Muscle soreness felt during exercise is primarily caused by a sustained isometric contraction that reduces blood flow and leads to acidosis.

  • 2

    Muscle cramps are thought to be caused by electrolyte imbalances or altered neuromuscular control, and can be relieved by passive stretching.

  • 3

    Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) is caused by eccentric contractions leading to muscle damage, and is NOT caused by lactic acid.