Recovering from exercise or injury can be a difficult process, especially for those who do not play sport professionally. Time constraints and the pressure of work, family and social life could mean that getting the appropriate amount of time to rest and recover is difficult. Of course, the treatment of any injury will depend on the extent of the injury and the part of the body that is affected. The areas that are most commonly affected are the legs and the lower back, although the neck and shoulders can also be prone to injury. If you’re looking for ways to improve recovery time, this guide should help.
Long term treatments
There are many tried and tested solutions to aid recovery. If you’re looking for more of a long term solution, it may be worth considering making an investment in specialist furniture that is designed to aid sports recovery. Leading furniture experts like Adjustable Beds offer a variety of mobility beds and riser-recliner armchairs that can offer relief from a variety of injuries and health ailments.
As well as promoting relaxation, adjustable furniture provides support to the legs, back and shoulders, while offering the chance to elevate the injured area to sooth aches and pains. Taking pressure off the legs and feet and lifting them above the heart is a medically proven method that is used to reduce swelling, improve circulation and speed up the recovery time. For those who are really sore, these pieces of furniture can be positioned to make access easier.
Short term treatments
Other options to enhance the recovery process may be to take painkillers or anti-inflammatories, as these will help to make the patient more comfortable and reduce any swelling. For sprains, strains or other muscle problems, medical professionals and NHS guidelines often recommend short-term home treatments such as the PRICE therapy (Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation). Hot and cold therapy packs are particularly effective when treating muscle and joint pain. Ice will reduce the blood flow to the area and decrease inflammation, whereas heat will increase blood flow and promote healing.
If the patient is experiencing severe pain or is suffering from prolonged periods of pain, then they may be offered a corticosteroid injection by a GP. These jabs reduce inflammation and can be administered every few weeks. However, anybody considering this method of treatment should consult a medical professional beforehand to weigh up their options. It may be that a noninvasive treatment is more suitable.
Other options
Sports massage is also something that many athletes opt for as it helps to fully relax and stretch out the muscles, reducing the chance of a long-lasting or recurring injury. However, it is worth noting that a severe soft tissue injury, such as a torn ligament, could be made worse by intense massage. To ensure that no further harm is caused, it is important to always consult a GP or physiotherapist before trying new treatments. Physiotherapy can also be used to restore movement to severely injured areas and it can be adapted to the patient’s specific requirements and health condition.
In extreme conditions, or following a long term injury it may be that surgery is required, if this is the case then the previously mentioned treatments should all help with the recovery period. Of course it is important to take the advice given by medical professionals and use this to plan your recovery.
Improving recovery time: Your guide to sports recovery
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