Should stretching be performed if you are experiencing delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS)?

Should stretching be performed if you are experiencing delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS)?

• A. Only after warm-up
• B. No
• C. Yes
• D. Only with light intensity

Answer: (B)

Stretching during DOMS is not recommended because DOMS reflects muscle fiber microtrauma and ongoing repair. Pushing into stretches when the muscles are tender and inflamed can irritate damaged fibers, increase pain, and potentially slow recovery. The safer approach is to avoid targeted stretching during this phase and instead focus on gentle, pain-free movement, adequate rest, hydration, and proper nutrition. Once soreness has subsided and the tissues have recovered, you can reintroduce a gradual, non-painful stretching routine as part of a normal cooldown or mobility work.

Stretching during DOMS is not recommended because DOMS reflects muscle fiber microtrauma and ongoing repair. Pushing into stretches when the muscles are tender and inflamed can irritate damaged fibers, increase pain, and potentially slow recovery. The safer approach is to avoid targeted stretching during this phase and instead focus on gentle, pain-free movement, adequate rest, hydration, and proper nutrition. Once soreness has subsided and the tissues have recovered, you can reintroduce a gradual, non-painful stretching routine as part of a normal cooldown or mobility work.