Difference between flare and post-exercise stiffness

[Siena62]

I have started exercising (moderately) again. I have started going for walks and last Tuesday I did my first proper swim in four years. I did my normal lengths without any difficulty (although my left shoulder objected a bit) and felt good afterwards. Prior to this I had been feeling a bit stiffer but I'm wondering how long you should feel stiff after exercise.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

see this re DOMS- delayed onset muscle soreness

Is it DOMS?

According to the American College of Sports Medicine, DOMS symptoms typically occur up at least 12 to 24 hours after a workout. The pain tends to peak about one to three days after your workout, and then should ease up after that.

Symptoms of DOMS to watch out for may include:

pain when stretching muscles, leading them to become contracted and tight

muscles that feel tender to the touch

reduced range of motion due to pain and stiffness when moving

swelling in the affected muscles

muscle fatigue

short-term loss of muscle strength

However, if you felt a bit of stiffness pre exercise it could be s combination of that and a flare… and if it doesn’t improve after a few days-you probably have your answer.

Info for treating a flare-

healthunlocked.com/pmrgcauk...

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Nothing much to add to DL's comment - but just diving into exercise of any sort after 4 years at the level you were then could well cause DOMS. You have to start from scratch and build up slowly to find the level your body can cope with now.

[Polygolfer]

hi Siena62, exercising is key as your muscles and joints need that to stay healthy and supple. But stretching is even more important, before and after exercise. If you’ve always exercised you will know how to listen to your body and pick up the intensity and frequency in a way that dias not overwhelm your muscles or joints! No matter how easy you go, some level of stiffness should not be surprising, some gentle stretching should sort that out. Plus resting days, just as important as exercising days! Good luck and good on you to exercise!!