Starting a journey toward a higher level of physical fitness is exciting, but you may be a little surprised by the onset of sore muscles at first. Perhaps you’re wondering whether you did something wrong and if it’s safe to continue. It’s natural to be concerned, but by looking to the matter further, you’ll be able to find the answers that you need to keep working toward your goals. 

What is Happening to Your Body? 

When you exert your muscles to work at a harder level to which they’re accustomed, they become torn. This is the reason that they feel sore and resist motion, and it’s typically most prominent the day after doing a new and challenging fitness routine. It happens even to seasoned athletes if they push themselves hard enough. Although your muscles will heal and get used to exercise, it often takes three to five days before the soreness completely dissipates.  

Fortunately, the pain of sore muscles can be temporarily alleviated with ice packs, massages, and oral or topical pain medication. Yoga and post-workout stretches may also keep you from feeling more soreness than necessary.

You only need to worry if negative symptoms occur, such as the pain starts right after you work out or lasts longer than three days. In that case, you may need to rest and schedule a visit to your primary care doctor or osteopathic physician to treat any injuries or underlying medical conditions. 

How Can You Exercise Carefully and Responsibly When Sore? 

Assuming you have none of those above symptoms of injury or illness, it’s perfectly fine to exercise when you’re sore. You must try so that you don’t lose your progress. 

However, be gentle with your body. Don’t force yourself into movements that are outside a comfortable range of motion for you, or else your sore muscles may progress into sprained ones. If it’s a particular group of muscles that are in pain, focus on working a different group while they rest. This way, you can continue improving your fitness level with regular activity while letting your body heal. Soon enough, you’ll feel strong and healthy. 

No matter your fitness level, the sports medicine specialists at IMUA Orthopedics, Sports & Health can help you deal with muscle soreness and reach your goals. Based in Honolulu, HI, they pride themselves in offering compassionate, personalized, and high quality nutritional and functional medicine to everyone who walks through their doors. If you find yourself injured in your fitness journey, they can also provide surgery if necessary. For advice on how to start your journey toward the best health of your life, call them today at (808) 521-8170 or message them online.