Easing sore muscles can be as simple as resting, but finding the best way to do so can be challenging. Some techniques will make you feel better faster than others, and some may even get in the way of your muscle recovery process because they’re counterproductive. Either way, you have to do something to help alleviate the pain that comes with sore muscles.
Whether you are a couch potato or an athlete, sore muscles can strike at any time and make it hard to perform your routine chores. So, if you’re suffering from sore muscles after an intense workout or other physical activity, here are a few techniques to help soothe those pains quickly.
Use THC to Ease Sore Muscles
THC is one of the compounds known as cannabinoids found in cannabis plants. Unlike its cousin CBD, THC is entirely non-psychoactive-meaning you can never experience any high. Instead, THC has many therapeutic benefits, including the ability to ease sore muscles.
According to a 2018 review of 132 studies published in Frontiers in Neurology, THC has potential anti-inflammatory properties that help increase blood flow to the muscles and joints during recovery. Increased blood delivers sufficient oxygen and other vital nutrients to the affected and benefits during the healing process.
THC may also be a safe and effective painkiller compared to other commonly used opioid drugs. It works in sync with the endocannabinoid body system to relieve pain due to its ability to bind with the receptors and slow down the neurons that alleviate pain.
Using THC can therefore be a perfect way to heal the pain caused by sore muscles. THC comes in many forms, from THC oils, tinctures, drinks, and THC gummies to THC vapes. The latest in the market are THC Oil that can be added to provide a relaxing sensation.
Massage
Massaging sore muscles can help ease tension and soreness. Massaging increases blood flow to the injured muscles. Increased blood flow increases oxygen supply to the injured muscles, assisting the recovery process. For best results, it’s recommended that you regularly get a massage from a professional if the pain persists. But if you’re hurting, massaging yourself at home can provide relief.
To do this, you may use your fingertips to massage the sore areas gently. It may not feel comfortable due to the pain, but it can help heal faster if you can endure it.
Do Light Exercises
If you’re sore, there’s one thing you should do immediately- do some light exercises. Researchers found that muscle soreness can be reduced by taking a brief walk or some other light exercise within 24 hours of working out. If you’re working out regularly, try reducing your intensity during a particularly tough session. Delaying your next workout by a day or two will give your body more time to recover and reduce post-workout soreness. And don’t forget stretching! Stretching is an easy way to help stretch the muscles before and after a workout.
Drink Plenty Of Water
When dehydrated, the body pulls fluids from all over your body, including your muscles, causing pain. If you’re experiencing pain in a particular muscle, drinking plenty of water may help ease soreness and get you back on track with regular exercise.
Water allows easy movement of fluids through the body system to help ease inflammation caused by damaged muscle tissues. It also helps to flush out dead cells and waste products like lactic acid from the injured area, contributing mainly to the recovery process. Remember that athletes need more than eight glasses daily; shoot for at least 12 ounces of water every two hours during activity. And don’t forget to stay hydrated after exercising, too!
Take Some Rest
The most effective and convenient way to eliminate sore muscles is to take a rest. However, this does not mean sitting on a couch the whole day, occasionally stretching the muscles to speed up recovery can help ease the pain. Take some time off from intense workout-about two to three days to allow the muscles to recover and heal.
If you take some rest, sleep well, eat well, and stretch out occasionally, you should be able to recover fast from muscle injury and get back to your routine workouts. If the pain persists, refrain from exercising as this can signify injury. Seek medical intervention from a medical doctor.
Eat After Exercise
Studies show that eating the right amount of recommended food before and after a workout leads to better recovery of sore muscles. You must eat within that hour window, or else your body may think it’s in starvation mode, which can cause muscle loss due to constant use of the food reserves in the muscle tissues. Aim for a high-protein snack, like eggs or Greek yogurt, since protein is essential to muscle growth and recovery.
Bottom Line
At some point in your life, you’ve probably experienced muscle soreness. The good news is that plenty of ways to help yourself feel better. Stay hydrated, try various strategies, and listen to your body. If you’re too sore for exercise, rest up and move when ready. Always consult with a medical professional if your pain continues for longer than several days.