Boden authored a study estimating over 40,000 exertional rhabdomyolysis hospitalizations in the United States between 2000 and 2019, though true numbers are likely under-reported.
Under-reporting occurs because primary symptoms closely resemble delayed onset muscle soreness, leading individuals to mistake severe injury for normal post-workout ache.
Prevention Strategies and Identifying Overexertion
Medical experts emphasize that preventing muscle cellular breakdown requires varying exercises, incorporating adequate rest, and gradually building intensity.
Repetitive calisthenics and eccentric exercises, such as push-ups where muscles lengthen under tension, carry the highest statistical risk for muscle injury.
"It’s that hyperintense going from zero to 100, really intense workouts of large muscle groups, that puts people at risk," said Dr. Bryant Walrod, a sports medicine physician and head team physician for the Ohio State Buckeyes.
Sports medicine physicians advise stopping exercise immediately if unusual pain or extreme weakness occurs during a workout.
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"You know your body the best, and if you feel like something isn’t right, it’s time to speak up," said Walrod.
