What are the best methods for pain relief after an intense workout?
February 16, 2022 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Norbert Sauer
Dear Doctor,
My name is Sebastian Büchner and I am a passionate athlete. I regularly engage in intense sports activities, whether it's running, cycling, or strength training. However, lately I have been experiencing increased pain after my workouts. I feel a strong pulling and burning sensation in my muscles and joints, which sometimes even hinders me from completing my training sessions as usual.
I am concerned that these pains could have long-term effects on my body, and I am wondering what the best methods for pain relief after an intense workout are. I have already tried to stretch and relax sufficiently after my workouts, but the pain still seems to persist.
Could you please recommend some effective ways to alleviate the pain? Are there specific stretching exercises, massage or cold therapies that have proven to be effective? Or are there certain medications or ointments that can effectively relieve the pain?
I am very grateful for your help and hope that you can provide me with some recommendations to relieve my post-workout pain and support my body optimally.
Thank you in advance.
Kind regards,
Sebastian Büchner
Dear Sebastian Büchner,
thank you for your message and your trust in my expertise as a sports medicine specialist. I am sorry to hear that you are currently struggling with pain after your intense training. As a passionate athlete, it is especially important to listen to your body and respond appropriately to warning signs such as pain.
Pain in muscles and joints after training can have various causes. It is important to identify the exact source of the pain in order to take appropriate measures for pain relief. In your case, it seems that stretching exercises alone are not sufficient to alleviate the discomfort. Therefore, I would like to provide you with some additional recommendations that may help.
A proven method for pain relief after intense training is the application of cold and heat treatments. After training, you can cool affected muscles and joints for about 15-20 minutes with an ice pack to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Then, you can take a warm shower or bath to promote blood circulation and relax the muscles.
In addition, massages can be an effective method for pain relief. A gentle massage of the affected areas can release tension, improve circulation, and promote recovery. You may also consider professional massage therapists who specialize in athletes and can specifically address your needs.
Regarding medications and ointments for pain relief, I recommend starting with natural remedies before turning to prescription medications. Anti-inflammatory ointments or creams containing arnica or menthol can provide temporary relief. However, if the pain persists or is severe, you should consult a doctor to receive appropriate treatment.
It is also important to ensure that you give your body sufficient rest and recovery. Overtraining can lead to muscle tension and injuries. Make sure to get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, and give your body the necessary time to regenerate.
I hope these recommendations can help alleviate your post-training pain and support your body as best as possible. If the discomfort continues, I recommend scheduling an appointment in my online consultation hour for further examinations and individual advice.
Wishing you a speedy recovery and continued enjoyment of your sport.
Best regards,
Norbert Sauer
