Capt is right about stretching. One thing I have read that was being researched was icing/cooling muscles after high intensity exercises. I know I tried to get sweaty and work my butt off and hop into a cold tub, it didn't work well for me. I don't really know if it helped me all that much, felt good after I got used to freezing water though.
I also believe there is evidense that links free radials to exercise, as in your create free radicals when you exercise. These free radicals also cause muscle damage. So things like vitamin C would help. Note I am not sure if that is actually true, but I like OJ and water after a workout.
If your muscles are genuinely sore because you over used them, then any over the counter med such as Motrin, or Aleve will help with the inflammation (I usually take twice the recommended dosage. That usually equals to a prescripton strength. But don't do that too often without consulting a doctor). Don't mess with creams or sprays or even most patches. Waste of money as most of them are just topical skin irritants. Very gently stretching, or even just moving your muscles will make them feel better as well. Don't over do it. If moving or stretching puts you in agony, may want to rest for a day.
You can take something like Motrin or Advil (ibuprofen related) for it. Ibuprofen works wonders on muscles. You can also get muscle pain cream..
If you have sore muscles due to strain, though, then you really should rest them. It's important to take care of your body. Your body hurting is it's way of saying it needs a little break.
Magnesium also helps relieve muscle cramps and sore muscles, you can get a supplement over the counter, but most probably your body just need to rest.
You can start by preventing them by not exercising too much and giving more days of the week as break time.
deep heat cream or spray works
...stretch... and rest...
