Overtrained

Finally, I found the proper term. And it can happen on a normal work load, from pushing too hard or if psychological stress wears down on you . . . . .

Overtraining Syndrome [quoted]
Overtraining is a physical, behavioral and emotional condition that occurs when the volume and intensity of an individual's exercise exceeds their recovery capacity. They cease making progress, and can even begin to lose strength and fitness. Overtraining occurs more readily if the individual is simultaneously exposed to other physical and psychological stressors, such as jet lag, ongoing illness, overwork, menstruation, poor nutrition, grief, etc.

What happens?
1. Microtrauma to the muscles are created faster than the body can heal them.
2. Protein deficiency. Amino acids are used up faster than they are supplied in the diet.
3. Calorie deficiency.
4. Excessive strain to the nervous system.

Symptoms:
* Low white blood cell count
* Persistent muscle soreness (Delayed onset muscle soreness)
* Persistent fatigue
* Elevated resting heart rate
* Increased susceptibility to infections
* Increased incidence of injuries
* Irritability
* Depression

Treatment:
1. Rest
Allowing more time for the body to recover.
Taking a break from training to allow time for recovery.
Reducing volume/intensity of training.
Suitable periodization of training.
Splitting the training program so that different sets of muscles are worked on different days.
Increase sleep time.
2. Changing diet:
Ensuring that calorie intake at least matches expenditure, esp. protein.
Addressing vitamin deficiencies.
3. Fixing it:
Massage.
Temperature contrast therapy: ice and heat.