Which of the following is listed as a cause of DOMS?

• A. Neural feedback
• B. Free radicals
• C. All of the above
• D. Swelling

Answer: (C)

Delayed onset muscle soreness results from several interacting processes after unfamiliar or intense exercise. Mechanical disruption of muscle fibers and surrounding tissue triggers inflammation, which brings swelling as fluid accumulates and pressure builds on pain receptors. Metabolic stress from exercise also leads to the production of free radicals, which can irritate cells and amplify soreness. Nociceptive signaling from damaged tissue, along with neural processing of those signals, can magnify the perception of pain through neural feedback. Because these various factors can all contribute to DOMS, the best answer is that all of them play a role.