title: An effect of ascorbic acid on delayed-onset muscle soreness.
abstract: Delayed-onset muscle soreness following strenuous use of the posterior calf muscles was studied to determine if ascorbic acid might have an effect on the appearance of this familiar pain. A double-blind, randomized, crossover study compared the soreness in subjects taking ascorbic acid against those taking a lactose placebo. Visual analog scales were used in conjunction with a variety of pain-challenging methods, and the results indicated a significant difference between experimental and placebo groups at the height of soreness. Typical soreness abatement scores of 25-44% were observed. A sample size of 19, lack of an untreated control group as well as the singular nature of the exercise and its intensity were considered limitations of the study.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001205:Ascorbic Acid / Q000494:pharmacology*; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007785:Lactose / Q000494:pharmacology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009132:Muscles / Q000187:drug effects / Q000503:physiopathology*; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D010147:Pain Measurement; D010166:Palliative Care; D010919:Placebos; D013997:Time Factors
chemical_list: D010919:Placebos; D007785:Lactose; D001205:Ascorbic Acid