Chronic Leg Soreness

     Three years ago I was on my college cycling team with a hard racing and recreational riding schedule.  Over time, I realized that I wasn't recovering.  Days after a hard ride (sometimes a week), I noticed I was more sore than the day after the exertion.  After several months of continued riding in this condition I wasn't recovering at all, even when off of a bike (and any exercise) for a considerable period of time.  
     I no longer exercise due to a chronic feeling of fatigue in my legs, particularly when climbing steps.  However, I am disturbed that even light exercise can cause me extreme soreness.  I joined a co-ed softball league this summer.  Running around the bases only a couple of times is my only exercise, and I am so sore days later that it is quite uncomfortable to walk.  Initially diagnosed with quad strain, but am not satisfied with the diagnosis.  If anyone has any insight, I would greatly appreciate any advice you could give.

[marissposa]

Are you staying well hydrated when you exercise?

[Dr_Aparna]

Hi,
Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is the pain or discomfort often felt 24 to 72 hours after exercising and subsides generally within 2 to 3 days. Once thought to be caused by lactic acid buildup, a more recent theory is that it is caused by tiny tears in the muscle fibers caused by eccentric contraction, or unaccustomed training levels.
Although the precise cause is still unknown, the type of muscle contraction seems to be a key factor in the development of DOMS. Exercises that involve many eccentric contractions, such as downhill running, will result in the most severe DOMS.
Although the precise cause is still unknown, the type of muscle contraction seems to be a key factor in the development of DOMS. Exercises that involve many eccentric contractions, such as downhill running, will result in the most severe DOMS.
Stretching before and after exercise has been suggested as a way of reducing DOMS, as has warming up before exercise, cooling down afterwards, and gently warming the area.
Some recommend contrast showers as a treatment, alternating between cold and hot water; it may increase circulation.
ref:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delayed_onset_muscle_soreness
Other alternatives to consider are musclestrain/cramps or myopathies.