If you’re a professional athlete or someone that just loves engaging in sport, you probably know how painful an injury can be. Sometimes it can feel like it takes forever to recover when all you want to really do is get back out in the field. In this article, we are going to discuss eight ways that you can ease pain from a sporting injuries. Sound interesting? Then keep on reading!
Table of Contents
Shockwave therapy
For some, the term shockwave therapy can sound very overwhelming. However, it’s important not to stress. This pain relief method is non-invasive and has shown great promise in the healing of many injuries. For example, Remington Medical’s shockwave therapy opens up many new possibilities for rehabilitation, for areas like the lower back and tendinopathies.
The process works by using high energy acoustic waves to painful spots. This “energy” then allows the body to continue regenerating and healing the various tissues, tendons, and bones. So far, it has been shown to benefit individuals in multiple areas, from the Achilles, patellar tendon, rotator cuff, and many more.
Medication
One of the most common remedies for pain is to take medication. This can be simple over the counter medicines, like paracetamol or ibuprofen, or more advanced pills that are prescribed only by a doctor. It can certainly be one of the most beneficial ways to reduce pain but does come with certain side effects. Taking some medications for too long may cause you to become addicted or can wear off the effects altogether.
Stretches and strengthening exercises
While exercising might be the last thing on your mind right now, it’s vital to ensure the healing of an injury. By completing various physical therapy exercises and stretches, your body can begin to maintain strength around the affected area and loosen the muscles to improve range of motion. It might take more than one session, but you will undoubtedly notice a difference.
Cold and heat
Another common solution to deal with all types of pain is to use either cold or heat. A cold compress can help reduce any inflammation from an injury and is most beneficial for strains and tendinitis. A hot compress will help restore blood flow and relax the sore muscles. It’s also useful for strains, sprains and can relive any painful spasms. It is important to remember, though, that it is better if this solution is applied directly after the injury, than later on.
Therapeutic massage
Similar to physio and exercising, therapeutic massage can also be extremely beneficial to those with injuries. It works by restoring blood flow and promoting regeneration in the bones. It’s also a great way to deal with the stress of a sports injury that comes with physical pain. However, it is important to note that sometimes this can make the pain worse, rather than better.
Biofeedback
Biofeedback is the process of learning how to control your body’s functions. By learning feedback about your body, you can improve your health condition and physical performance. While it does sound complicated, by using one of the different types of biofeedback, you can practice a way to reduce pain. This process does require various sessions, and because this is often an opted option of pain relief, it may not be covered by your insurance.
Sleep
You’ve probably heard the term to “sleep something off,” and that is for a good reason. Sleep allows our body and mind to recuperate, which can in fact, reduce pain. While it obviously isn’t going to magically fix a broken bone or heal a major injury overnight, it’s a great way to de-stress and help move along the healing process. There is a reason why doctors tell you to take a nap when you are sick!
Surgery
One of the last resorts that you want to consider to ease your pain is some type of surgery. While this isn’t always possible, some doctors may consider an operation if it is viable. It’s important to remember, though that this also requires a lot of rehabilitation, and you won’t be able to jump up and spring right into the action simply.
And that’s it! These were eight different ways to ease the pain of sports injuries. It’s important to remember that some of these can be used together, and certain things might work for some and not others. This is why it can be beneficial to you give different things a shot before giving up hope. Rest up, and you’ll be back on the field in no time!