How to relieve lactic acid buildup in muscles
Oct 27, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Pan Yongyuan
Introduction
Muscle lactic acid buildup can be relieved through physical therapy or medication. Lactic acid accumulation mainly refers to the excessive production of lactic acid during exercise, which cannot be metabolized in time, leading to its buildup in the body and resulting in muscle soreness and discomfort. Exercise-induced lactic acid accumulation usually gets gradually metabolized within 24 hours.
Accumulation of lactic acid in muscles can be relieved through physical therapy or medication. Lactic acid buildup mainly refers to the excessive production of lactic acid during exercise, which cannot be metabolized in time, leading to its accumulation in the body and resulting in muscle soreness and discomfort. Exercise-induced lactic acid accumulation usually gradually resolves within 24 hours; however, if an individual's metabolism is slow, symptoms of muscle pain may persist longer.
1. Physical Therapy
During exercise, intense anaerobic metabolism in muscles produces lactic acid, which accumulates in the muscles and causes post-exercise muscle soreness. Massage, kneading, warm compresses, or taking a hot bath can help improve blood circulation and reduce lactic acid buildup. For deep muscles, using a massage gun for vibration relaxation may help release tension. Drinking适量 warm water appropriately can also promote lactic acid metabolism. Additionally, light activities such as slow walking and muscle stretching can enhance muscle contraction and accelerate lactic acid clearance.
2. Medication
After exercise, lactic acid accumulation may cause localized muscle pain. Under a doctor's guidance, anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules or loxoprofen sodium tablets can be used to relieve discomfort. Medications should be taken strictly according to medical advice, and self-medication without supervision should be avoided.
In daily life, it is important to perform proper warm-up exercises before physical activity and do cool-down stretches afterward. Avoid engaging in excessively intense exercise all at once, and maintain a balance between work and rest with adequate recovery time.
