DMSO and Athletic Performance: What the Science Says” – Meta tags: DMSO, athletic performance, enhancement, scientific evidence

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DMSO, or dimethyl sulfoxide, is a colorless and odorless liquid that has been widely used for medical and industrial purposes. One of its potential uses is as a performance enhancer for athletes, as it has been claimed to reduce muscle soreness, improve recovery time, and enhance endurance. However, the use of DMSO in sports is highly controversial, and its benefits and risks are still under debate. In this blog post, we will explore the science behind what is dmso cream used for and athletic performance, and discuss the controversies surrounding its use.

DMSO is a powerful solvent that can easily penetrate through skin and cell membranes. It has been used for decades as a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory agent for various conditions, such as arthritis, tendonitis, and sports injuries. Some athletes have started using DMSO as a performance enhancer, claiming that it can reduce muscle soreness and stiffness, speed up recovery time, and increase endurance. These claims are based on the idea that DMSO can help deliver more oxygen to the muscles and reduce lactic acid buildup, leading to improved athletic performance.

There is some scientific evidence to support these claims. Several studies have shown that DMSO can reduce muscle damage and inflammation, as well as improve muscle function and recovery time in athletes. For example, a 2017 study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that DMSO gel applied topically on the quadriceps muscles of male athletes after a high-intensity exercise session reduced muscle soreness and improved range of motion compared to a placebo gel. Another study published in the Journal of Athletic Training in 2004 showed that DMSO injections into the quadriceps muscles of rats before a high-intensity exercise session improved muscle function and reduced oxidative stress and inflammation.

However, the use of DMSO in sports is highly controversial, and its potential risks and side effects cannot be ignored. DMSO is not an approved drug by the FDA for any medical condition or for use as a performance enhancer. It can cause skin irritation, burning, and itching, as well as nausea, headaches, and dizziness when taken internally. In rare cases, it can also cause severe allergic reactions, liver and kidney damage, and blood disorders. Moreover, the long-term effects of DMSO on human health are still unknown, and more research is needed to assess its safety and efficacy as a performance enhancer.

Another issue with the use of DMSO in sports is its potential to mask the use of banned substances, such as steroids or other performance-enhancing drugs. DMSO can increase the permeability of the skin and cell membranes, which can facilitate the absorption of other substances, including banned drugs. This has raised concerns among anti-doping organizations and sports federations, who have banned the use of DMSO in sports competitions.

In conclusion, while there is some scientific evidence to support the use of DMSO as a performance enhancer for athletes, its potential risks and side effects cannot be ignored. The use of DMSO in sports is highly controversial, and its benefits and risks are still under debate. Athletes should be aware of the potential risks and side effects of DMSO and consult with a healthcare professional before using it as a performance enhancer. Moreover, the use of DMSO to mask the use of banned substances in sports competitions is strictly prohibited and can result in severe penalties. As with any medical or sports-related treatment, athletes should always prioritize their health and safety above any potential performance benefits.

 

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