How to treat sore muscles......

[bceogirl]

After doing GS triceps, chest & abs (not for the first time) yesterday , I have for some reason been extremely sore today!
Just raising my arms during the step warm up today was difficult. I didn't cut the grass because I really don't think I could push the mower.....and I am most sore under my arms down both sides of my body (???).....so anyway, I've just sort of taken it easy today and I am hoping I will be up to doing GS biceps/shoulders/back tomorrow, but right now can't imagine it.
Anyway, my question (besides ...why on earth did this workout kick my butt in such a major way this time, when I've done it before and with heavier weights!!!!?)....is how do you treat sore muscles??
Tylenol?? Advil/aleve.....or is there something better?
Is there a way to avoid it in the first place if you know you are going to work out hard??
Do any vitamins or supplements help??
There are so many knowledgable ppl here, I hope someone has some ideas.
Thanks ahead of time!!

 

[benvonwojo]

I get DOMS when I do heavy chest work too. I love that DOMS feeling, but sometimes it gets too sore even for me. I dont take anti-inflammatories or pain relievers, but I do try to get a massage when I am really sore. It does hurt while he is rubbing but the next day I feel a lot less sore. I also take a hot bath when its quite bad, and I also work in a good thorough stretch. I know stretching may seem counter-intuitive but stretching slowly and deliberatly reallllly helps the muscle recover. And, it's probably just my imaginitis, but when I take creatine before a heavy lifting session DOMS is less.

Hope this helps,
Suzanne

 

[Imafitnessfreak]

I say enjoy and extra protein shake that day and massage some Arnica gel (found at GNC) on the sore muscles. Better yet, have DH massage it on!

I'd consume a protein shake immediately following a heavy weight workout in the future...get some carbs in too, that's when your muscles can use them the most.