Should you continue stretching if your leg is sore the day after?
Sep 19, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
If the pain after stretching the legs is severe the following day, accompanied by symptoms such as swelling or redness, it may indicate serious injury to muscles or joints, such as muscle tear or joint sprain. In this case, you should not continue stretching the legs, as it may worsen the existing injury and prolong recovery time. It is recommended to engage in moderate exercise in daily life and avoid strenuous physical activity.
Generally, if there is pain the day after stretching the legs, further stretching should not be continued. However, if the pain is mild and the individual is in good physical condition, stretching may usually continue. Specific analysis is as follows:
If the pain the day after leg stretching is severe, or accompanied by symptoms such as swelling or redness, this may indicate a significant injury to muscles or joints, such as muscle tears or joint sprains. In such cases, leg stretching should not be continued, as it could worsen the existing injury and prolong recovery time. If the pain is mild and mainly manifests as muscle soreness, it is likely a normal response caused by microscopic damage to muscle fibers and lactic acid buildup during exercise. In this situation, reducing the intensity and frequency of stretching appropriately while continuing the activity can help muscles adapt and recover.
In daily life, it is recommended to engage in moderate exercise and avoid strenuous physical activity. If discomfort or symptoms occur, prompt medical consultation is advised.
