Sore 48 Hours After Leg Day? A Gentle DOMS Relief Routine That Actually Helps

That deep ache 24–72 hours after a new or harder workout is likely DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness). Ease it with gentle movement, warmth, hydration, sleep, and a short self-massage routine using a plant-based rub (with or without CBD). Below is a simple 3-day plan.

What is DOMS—and why does it hit two days later?

When you challenge muscles in a new way, microscopic wear-and-repair kicks in. Inflammation and fluid shifts peak later, which is why the stiffness and “stairs are my enemy” feeling shows up at the 24–48 hour mark.

Good news: DOMS is usually normal and fades on its own. You don’t need to “power through” with another brutal session—be kind and let your body rebuild.

The 10-Minute DOMS Relief Routine (Do 1–2×/day)

1. Warm up the tissue (2 minutes)
   Warm shower, heating pad, or a few minutes of light marching in place to get blood moving.

2. Apply a plant-based rub (2–3 minutes)
   Use a nickel-to-quarter-sized amount per large muscle group (quads, hamstrings, calves, glutes).

   • Our Joint & Muscle Pain Rubs feature wintergreen, arnica, eucalyptus, ginger, lavender, chamomile—and an optional cayenne warmth. Available with or without CBD.

   • Massage in slow circles toward the heart to encourage circulation. Patch test first if you’re sensitive.

3. Gentle mobility (3–4 minutes)

   • Quads/hip flexors: Half-kneel hip shift, 5 slow breaths/side

   • Hamstrings: Seated hinge with long spine, 5 breaths/side

   • Calves: Wall ankle rocks, 10 reps/side

   • Glutes: Figure-4 stretch on back, 5 breaths/side

4. Walk it out (3 minutes)
   Easy walk around the room or block—just enough to “unstick” without fatigue.

Your 3-Day DOMS Game Plan

• Day 1 (Peak soreness): Keep it light. Do the 10-minute routine morning and evening. Short walks. Skip heavy training.

• Day 2 (Easing): Routine once, plus 15–20 minutes of easy cycling or walking. Gentle bodyweight moves (air squats, wall push-ups), 2 sets of 8–10—stop well before discomfort.

• Day 3 (Back to normal): Routine as needed. Resume training at 70–80% of last session volume/intensity.

What each botanical brings (the feel, not medical claims)

• Arnica: Known for a soothing feel after activity.

• Wintergreen: Cooling sensation (naturally contains methyl salicylate).

• Eucalyptus & Ginger: Comforting, open-and-warm feel.

• Lavender & Chamomile: Calming aromatics to help you relax.

• Cayenne (optional): Gentle warming tingle that many love post-workout.

• CBD option: Some people prefer the added calm-and-relax vibe.

Avoid if you’re sensitive to salicylates, are pregnant/nursing, or have broken skin. Always patch test and follow your healthcare provider’s guidance.

Common DOMS Myths—Busted

• “No pain, no gain.” Progress can happen without misery. Aim for challenging, not crushing.

• “Just stretch it hard.” Aggressive stretching can backfire. Keep it gentle and supported.

• “Sweat it out with another max day.” You’ll likely extend recovery—choose light movement instead.

When soreness isn’t normal

If pain is sharp, one-sided with swelling/bruising, limits weight-bearing, or you notice other concerning signs—pause and check with a professional.

Ready to feel better, faster?

• Try Elly’s Joint & Muscle Pain Rubs (with or without CBD) for your post-workout routine.

• Prefer shopping local? Find us at Elliott’s Natural Foods (Sacramento).

• Pair your rub with a warm shower, 10 gentle minutes of mobility, and a walk—you’ll be surprised how much easier stairs feel tomorrow.