DOMS: How can CBD help with post-gym muscle pain?

Delayed Onset of Muscle Soreness (DOMS) can be extremely painful after a good workout session, but what causes it and how could CBD help?

Sore muscles after a good gym session are often referred to as delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). The soreness can happen if you change your routine, start a new exercise programme or increase the intensity of your workout.

The muscles are required to work harder than they are used to so it is thought they cause microscopic damage to muscle fibres which causes the soreness. DOMS can affect anyone including professional athletes. It can last up to three to five days after your workout which can be alarming for beginners or some athletes in more severe pain.

It is normally recommended to rest allowing time for the muscle to recover while using ice, painkillers or massage. Starting a new exercise gently and gradually over time instead of rushing may cause less strain on the muscle. CBD may also help with DOMS recovery.

DOMS and CBD

It’s never been easier to take CBD for gym-related pain. There are so many different options from edibles to muscle balms. The perfect method of taking CBD for DOMS comes down to personal choice although topical products are great for targeting the exact area.

So how does CBD help fight DOMS pain?

Inflammation

A study found that cannabinoids may potentially protect against inflammation. However, it’s worth noting that this study was on inflammatory pain from multiple sclerosis rather than DOMS.

A review from 2009 shows CBD may reduce acute inflammation. Acute inflammation is the body’s reaction to injury which can occur during exercise.

Pain

A study on CBD and joint pain found that daily doses may help to reduce the pain. The study focused on rats with arthritis and the CBD treatment was applied as a gel.

What are the fastest ways to take CBD for DOMS

Workout pain can be serious and sometimes you need CBD quickly. Here are three different options for faster absorption.

Vape

Vaping is one of the fastest ways to take CBD as it reaches the bloodstream faster through capillaries in the lungs. It bypasses the digestive system unlike edibles so  It is also great for anyone who isn’t a fan of the hemp taste as e-liquids come in a variety of different flavours.

Topicals

Topicals such as lotions, creams or oils can help target the exact area of pain. They can also be massaged into the skin to relieve muscle pain. The CBD is absorbed by the skin and into the bloodstream. Topicals can also contain other soothing ingredients such as lavender or chamomile which could help to heal the muscles faster.

Patches

Patches work in a similar way to topicals in that the CBD is absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream. The difference is that patches offer a discreet way to get a dose while on the go. If you don’t have time to wait for a cream to dry or dislike residue from products then patches are great for this. They also release CBD more steadily throughout the day meaning you may not need to take another dose later on.

Read more: What’s the best CBD for a workout?