Does the accumulation of lactic acid cause soreness in overexercised muscle?

The accumulation of lactic acid in muscles during intense exercise is often associated with fatigue, but it is not the primary cause of delayed muscle soreness (DOMS) that occurs after overexertion. DOMS is primarily attributed to microscopic damage to muscle fibers and the subsequent inflammatory response, rather than lactic acid buildup. While lactic acid levels can rise during vigorous activity, they typically return to normal shortly after exercise, whereas muscle soreness can develop 24 to 48 hours post-exercise.