Get Back in the Game After a Back Injury
By Sara Butler
If you suffered a back injury playing your favorite sport, you may be eager to get back out there again as soon as you can. But, if you want to avoid back injuries in the future, then there are some very important steps you can’t miss in your pursuit to get back on the playing field. Here are some pointers to help you get back into the game safely without injuring yourself and once again finding yourself on the disabled list.
Tip No. 1: Don’t Rest Too Much
If you suffered a sprain or a strain during a physical activity that had you resting for a day or two, don’t get too comfortable on that couch! Being immobile for too long can actually hinder your healing process and take you longer to heal. Plus, all the hard work you’ve put into building up your muscles can go to waste after just a few days.
Immobility is not a long-term solution to your problem, so make sure as soon as you can that you get up and get moving. That doesn’t mean you should go back out at full speed, but you do need to walk, do some stretching, and maybe even work some yoga in for good measure. Just make sure you don’t push too far and injure yourself all over again.
Tip No. 2: Start with Stretching
One of the first workouts you should attempt after a back injury is stretching. Gentle stretches will help to increase blood flow to your muscles and keep them loose. Take your body through a normal range of motion exercises as long as the pain doesn’t come back. You can start to add strength training back in after that and then work up to moderate, low impact exercise.
Even though you’re working up to it slowly, you should consult with your chiropractor before you get back into your normal activities. They’ll give you the green light when the time is right!
Tip No. 3: Be Diligent
You should always be on the lookout for injury when you’re exercising. As you work back into your normal activity after an injury, be diligent in looking for signs that mean you’re not actually fully recovered. Signs such as tingling, numbness, radiating pain, or new pain may mean that something more serious is going on. That means you need to talk to your chiropractor at The Joint pronto!
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.