Isometric Exercise for Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness

Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is a common consequence of unaccustomed or high-intensity physical activity, particularly exercises involving eccentric muscle contractions. DOMS is characterized by pain, tenderness, temporary reductions in muscle function, decreased range of motion, and impaired physical performance, typically peaking between 24 and 72 hours after exercise.

Various recovery strategies have been investigated to reduce the symptoms of DOMS; however, evidence regarding the effectiveness of isometric exercise in facilitating recovery remains limited. Previous studies have suggested that isometric muscle contractions may induce analgesic effects and increase pressure pain thresholds in musculoskeletal conditions. Whether these effects can improve recovery following exercise-induced muscle damage and DOMS has not been fully established.

The purpose of this randomized controlled trial was to investigate the effects of an isometric exercise program on recovery following experimentally induced DOMS in healthy adults. DOMS was induced using a standardized drop-jump protocol. Participants were randomly assigned to either an isometric exercise group or a control group. Outcome assessments were performed before DOMS induction, immediately after exercise, and during follow-up evaluations on Days 1, 3, and 5.

The findings of this study may contribute to the understanding of the role of isometric exercise as a simple, low-cost, and clinically applicable recovery strategy following exercise-induced muscle soreness.