Although the exact mechanism of DOMS hasn’t been determined, DOMS tends to occur after eccentric (muscle-lengthening) or novel exercises. Other factors, such as muscle damage, neutrophil accumulation, oxidative stress, inflammatory compounds (histamine, bradykinins, and prostaglandins), and fluid accumulation may also contribute to the symptoms of DOMS.[1] However, if a person performs an exercise that causes DOMS, they may feel less sore when they perform the same exercise during future workouts; this is known as the repeated bout effect.[2]
What causes DOMS?
Written by:
Fact-checked
by:
•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
DOMS is primarily caused by eccentric or novel exercises, and contributing factors include muscle damage, inflammation, and fluid accumulation. Interestingly, people may experience reduced soreness in subsequent workouts of the same exercise due to the repeated bout effect.