Also known as ‘muscle fever’ DOMS is a sore, aching, or painful feeling in the muscles after unusual, unfamiliar, or unaccustomed intense exercise. DOMS is thought to result from temporary muscle damage and inflammation, commonly triggered by eccentric exercises. This condition is common among sports people particularly body builders.
Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Swelling of the affected limbs
- Stiffness of the joint accompanied by temporary reduction in a joint’s range of motion
- Tenderness to the touch
- Temporary reduction in strength of the affected muscles (lasting days)
- Elevated creatine kinase (CK) enzyme in the blood, signaling muscle tissue damage
In rare and severe cases, muscle breakdown to the extent that the kidneys may be placed at risk.