Injuries are multifactorial in nature. Sleep, stress levels, nutritional status, hydration, and previous training history all contribute. The tissue (muscle, ligament, tendon, bone, etc.) breaks when the load exceeds its capacity.
If there has been a large gap in your exercise routine over the winter or early spring months, your body may not be prepared to handle the loads of an old hobby/exercise routine. A rapid increase in training load or activity may aggravate some areas under high stress.
The solution? Gradually easing back into any activity/sport!
Allow your body to adapt to the stressors of the activity and prioritize recovery afterward. A physiotherapist can help you with this process!
Unfortunately, if an injury does come up, it is imperative to manage it correctly to promote the healing process and make sure it doesn’t happen again.
Most people are familiar with the RICE protocol involving Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.
This protocol was created in 1978 by Dr. Mirkin, who recanted his position on it because it is contrary to what the evidence suggests. Ice and rest do not enhance the recovery process but delay recovery and may result in further damage to the tissue!
The literature suggests a much more active approach to recovering from an injury involving the acronym PEACE AND LOVE. Some of these recommendations are contrary to “common sense” and can be confusing. Physiotherapists are specifically trained to help guide you through this process.
Stop by the physiotherapist in your club if you have a current injury, want to prevent future injuries, or learn more about managing an injury!
Interested in making an appointment? Stop by your Renew office, email Shaina.byler@renewphysiotherapy.fit, call 919-791-6678, or visit physiotherapy.o2fitnessclubs.com to schedule.