Recovering From a Sports Injury

by Anthony Oyogoa

It is easy to disregard our health in today’s fast paced society. As the old saying goes, “time is money.” This old adage feels like it rings truer and truer with each

passing day. Sometimes we just do not care to take the time off from work, sit in a waiting room, talk with a doctor, pick up medicine (if necessary), and then be expected to rest once all is said and done. Lets be

honest, it requires a lot of time.

Regardless, we should be caring for our bodies as quickly and

efficiently as possible. Many of the common injuries out there

today come from adult recreation leagues, or just plain being active

in your daily life.

For a large percent of the population, staying active is part of daily life. Unfortunately with

physical activity, often comes injury. Assuming you have been injured, will be injured, or know someone who is injured, there a few simple steps you can do, or

recommend to get back to 100%.

By following simple guidelines, people are able to make speedy recoveries.

With the advancement of modern procedures and therapies, injuries as

serious as a torn ACL do not set athletes back like it used to.

- GET THE FACTS -

It is important to get your facts straight. The common reaction to an injury is to immediately hop on the web

and see what you can find out for yourself. Unfortunately some symptoms meet the criteria for A LOT of medical problems, so the internet might just scare you. It may be in your best interest to have

medical professionals offer their opinion and diagnose the injury that way.

- FIND YOUR CARE NETWORK -

If you do not have a trusted network of care providers, now might be a good time to find

someone you trust. There are several qualified providers out there, but it is important you feel comfortable and trust the folks responsible for

rehabilitating you.

- STOP IF PAIN GETS WORSE! -

The next helpful advice may be painfully obvious, but if the pain gets worse, stop what you are doing! Whether alone, or working with a trainer, it is important to listen

to your body and respond accordingly. Paying extra attention to your body will go a long way. If your

movements are causing you pain and getting worse, discontinue immediately.

- EXPLORE OPTIONS -

Some of us a more stubborn than others and may be able to find an alternative exercise. Depending on the extent of your injury, you

may be able to accomplish a lot by other means of fitness. A switch to some low-impact cardo can go

a long way. Be sure to consult your doctor if you are attempting any type of additional activities

while recovering from injury.

- REST -

Rest will become your best friend. As mentioned in the intro, we often cannot afford taking the time away from our daily routine. Work, family, and other responsibilities will

often trump our injuries, but ultimately resting will help get you back to where you need to be.

Set small goals. Focus on yourself and avoid comparisons to normal recovery timelines. You will be back to 100% before you know it. Many of these

talking points are obvious, but are often ignored. Following some common sense guidelines will take

us a long way.

For more information about Anthony Oyogoa, please visit www.anthonyoyogoa.org