3 Exercise Injuries That Demand Rest
By Genevieve Cunningham
Though we do everything we can to avoid injury, most of us are going to get hurt at one point or another. This is especially true if you're an active person. A person who engages in regular exercise and movement. Many times, the injuries that we endure are mild and short-lived. After a cramp in a muscle or a fall that leaves a sting, we can usually walk it off and get back into the thick of the routine. But other injuries may need more than that. More rest. More time to heal. If you've found yourself down and out with injury and aren't sure when to get back into it, take a look at these three injuries that demand rest before jumping back in full steam ahead.
Pulled Muscles
A sore muscle is not the same as a pulled muscle. When the muscles are sore, it might mean that they were challenged. They were worked, and that can be a good thing. A pulled muscle is one that was overworked. And in being overworked, it was injured. If you have a pulled muscle, you'll need plenty of rest to let it heal. If you jump back into the routine too quickly, you'll run the risk of hurting it even more.
Blisters
Not all blisters require rest. After all, part of the battle in suffering from blisters is developing calluses. Once you've developed a callus, you won't suffer as many blisters. But if you have a blister that is about to burst or is open and oozing, you may need to let it rest. Continually using the area with blisters might lead to infection or incredibly raw and sensitive skin. You have to let it heal. Use a protective barrier (like gloves perhaps) and allow for a little rest so that you can develop calluses without tearing your skin to shreds.
Concussions
This one is a no-brainer. Any time you sustain a head injury, you must rest. Minor concussions may only require a week or two of rest. But major head injuries may require a significant amount of rest. Don't rush this process. Keep in mind that the problem isn't necessarily the pain, but rather the risk of major injury to the most precious part of your body. If you hit your head, take a timeout, see a doctor if necessary, and allow your body to heal adequately.
Sometimes it's OK to push through a little pain. But other times, it's absolutely necessary to rest. Use these examples as a guide. And of course, ask a healthcare professional any time you have a concern. Take care of your body appropriately, and you'll reach your goals even faster than before.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Riverdale, Utah.