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Effect of eccentric strength testing on delayed-onset muscle pain
Erin A Dannecker1, Patrick D O'Connor, James W Atchison
1Department of Physical Therapy, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65211, USA. danneckere@missouri.edu
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
|November 17, 2005
Summary
Eccentric strength testing can induce delayed-onset muscle pain. However, performing this test twice appears to reduce subsequent pain intensity and unpleasantness, suggesting a protective effect.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Sports Medicine
- Muscle Physiology
Background:
- Delayed-onset muscle pain (DOMS) is a common consequence of unaccustomed eccentric exercise.
- Understanding the factors influencing DOMS is crucial for training protocols and injury prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of eccentric strength testing on the development of DOMS.
- To determine if repeated eccentric strength testing influences subsequent pain perception.
Main Methods:
- Twenty untrained university students underwent eccentric strength testing (5-repetition maximum [5RM]).
- One arm was subjected to 3 sets of 10 eccentric repetitions to induce DOMS.
- A subsequent session involved re-testing the 5RM and performing eccentric repetitions on the previously tested arm.
Main Results:
- Eccentric strength testing alone significantly increased pain intensity and unpleasantness for 48 hours.
- However, pain intensity and unpleasantness were significantly lower in the arm that underwent two 5RM tests compared to the arm with only one.
Conclusions:
- Eccentric strength testing can induce DOMS.
- Repeated eccentric strength testing may offer a protective effect against future DOMS, potentially by preconditioning the muscle.
- These findings have implications for baseline strength assessments and exercise prescription.