Blog

Recovering After an Injury: Your Step-by-Step Guide to a Pain-Free Life

Thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic and an array of other factors, regular exercise and physical activity among Americans is at an all-time low. Anyone who is taking the time to work out and get moving should be proud. However, if these activities result in an overuse injury, sprain, strain, or any other type of injury, the pain is often both physical and psychological. Even though it is easy to begin feeling down when exercise is not possible, there is no reason to fall into the “why me” trap.

When it comes to overcoming pain and working to Regain Muscle Mobility, several things can help. Keep reading to learn what these things are.

Use the RICE Method

The best response to any type of sports injury is referred to as the RICE approach. Keep in mind, though, that this is not a treatment method that should be used for treating broken bones or other injuries that result in a person being unable to support their body weight. Situations like those require emergency care.

RICE actually stands for rice, ice, compression, and elevation. The rest part of the equation does not mean that a person needs to take a nap. It just means they need to stop doing the things that caused the injury. It is also a good idea to apply an ice pack that has been wrapped in a thinner towel (remember not to apply the ice directly to the skin over the injured area) for approximately 20 minutes. Continue to ice the injured area for 20-minute periods several times per day for two days.

While icing the injured area of the body, apply gentle pressure (this is the compression part of the treatment). This can be done with a simple elastic bandage. Compression can help reduce swelling. Be sure to elevate the injured part of the body, too, so it is higher than the heart.

Take the Right Medication

Unless the system cannot tolerate OTC pain medications, it is a good idea to take medication to help reduce inflammation. Some of the top options include acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin. Just a few tablets every four to six hours for about seven days is enough. Look for the recommended dosage on the product's label. If the pain and swelling stop, the medication can be discontinued.

Use a Heat Pack

After the swelling has subsided in the injured area (which usually happens 48 hours after an injury), apply moist heat to the sore area. This is because a person has reached a point where increasing circulation can speed up repair and healing. Use a heating pad with a spongy insert that is dampened with water. A more affordable option is just to wet a washcloth with hot water. While the heat does not last as long, it does not require any investment and offers the same benefits.

Overcoming an Injury and Pain

When it comes to healing from any sort of injury after overactivity, taking the right steps is paramount. The tips and information here will help anyone heal faster and get back up and moving sooner. Be sure to keep the information here in mind to take the right steps and avoid making the injury more serious. Being informed is the best way to help ensure the desired results are achieved.