"Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is an acute inflammatory condition that occurs in athletes most often at the onset of a regimen, as in spring training. Muscle discomfort peaks 24 to 48 hours after exercise and is characterized by a decrease in range of motion, shock attenuation and peak torque (maximum strength). The posited causes include inflammation and connective or muscle tissue damage."

"While several recent studies have looked at various promising treatments for DOMS, four of these treatments proved considerably less than effective."

"One promising treatment for DOMS is massage. Eighteen volunteers were randomly assigned to a massage or control group; DOMS was induced with six sets of eccentric contractions of the right hamstring. Two hours later, either 20 minutes of classical Swedish massage or a a "sham massage" were administered. Peak torque and mood were assessed four time up to 48 hours post-exersice. Range of motion and intensity of soreness were assessed a 6, 24, and 48 hours. Neutrophil count (the repair indicator) was assessed at 6 and 24."

"Of these factors, only intensity of soreness was significantly lower in the massage group, at 48 hours post-exercise. Thus, though hamstring function was not improved, massage remains a promising treatment for the pain associated with DOMS. The mechanism for the improvement in soreness now needs to be identified."

SOURCE: "Current Muscle Soreness Treatments Vary in Approach - and Effectiveness", RUNNING & FITNEWS, Volume 21, Number 6, November/December 2003, www.americanrunning.org.