Anyone who frequently exercises knows the risks they take with grueling workouts. After all, whether it’s intense cardio or heavy-weight training, physical activity takes a toll on the body. Sometimes, unfortunate injuries do happen. If you face one, you must know the best ways to recover from a gym injury to get back to your old self. Ultimately, you shouldn’t overdo it. If you have a serious gym injury that requires medical attention, consult your physician or go to the hospital as soon as possible.
Deep Tissue Massages
Naturally, there are different types of gym injuries. You’ll need to decide which treatment best benefits you, depending on your injury. Still, one of the best overall recovery methods is getting a deep tissue massage. A deep tissue massage targets musculoskeletal strains and injuries. This is because sustained pressure on the muscles and connective tissues breaks up scar tissue, reducing tension and inflammation in the affected area. It’s one of the most effective ways to increase blood flow and help you recover faster.
Ice Baths
Ice baths are another homeopathic treatment to recover from a sports injury. Commonly, athletes in many sports use ice baths to reduce muscle pain and soreness. This practice is called cold water immersion or cryotherapy. With only 10 to 15 minutes in the bath, the ice water quickens recovery, reduces muscle and tissue damage, and improves motor function.
Rest
Of course, there’s no better way to recover from a gym injury than rest. There’s nothing wrong with stopping for a bit, then returning to your workouts after a long break. In fact, it’s better for your health if you do so. With each active day, your body goes through stress and strain to perform the necessary functions. That’s taxing on your muscles, joints, and ligaments. Sometimes, it wears down the natural fibers, which snap, bruise, or strain if put under too much pressure. Those are preventable injuries if you simply give your body the necessary rest time it deserves. Long rest breaks also help prevent burnout. If you’ve dieted and trained consistently for four months or longer without many breaks, take a week off. You’ll find that random rests thrown into your routine help keep you more motivated and goal-oriented than if you try to tackle your routine without them.
Experts in Sports Injuries
Occasionally, major injuries happen. While it’s always disheartening to face a more serious gym injury, remember that even professional athletes must deal with them throughout their careers. In such cases, the only recovery method to get you back into action may be dealing with experts who concentrate on sports injuries.
Nowadays, there are wellness facilities specializing in different types of sports recovery. These locations have access to state-of-the-art therapies and recovery tools used by Olympic athletes and pros, and can be found by searching for “sport recovery near me” online. Physical therapists and other experts can use electrostimulation, muscle recovery tools, and exercises to increase mobility and function. Just make sure to avoid skipping your appointments or exercises, as that will hinder your recovery.
Whether you are a rookie runner, a fitness enthusiast, a weekend warrior trying to stay fit, someone who just overdid, or an athlete looking to perform at your best, use some of the tips above to recover from an injury and you’ll be back to your old self in no time.
To a Fitter Healthier You,
The Fitness Wellness Mentor
