Injuries are common occurrences in sports, regardless of your age or the sport you play. After a sports injury, you will need some downtime to recover. Though resting the injured area is essential, you require more to heal properly.
To help speed up recovery, your doctor may recommend physical therapy and other restorative therapies. Together, these help you maintain your physical abilities and independence before and after you’ve healed. Sport injuries can be minor or severe. Treatment will depend on the condition of the injury. In some cases, your doctor may even recommend an inpatient rehab.
Let’s take a closer look at how rehab can help you recover after such an injury. Remember, this information is for educational purposes only, so speak to your doctor before beginning any treatment.
Ways Rehab After Sports Injury Helps
Whether you’re a dedicated athlete or just like to play sports in your spare time, injuries are a possibility. Taking the proper steps after an injury ensures you recover safely and effectively. Rehab also offers several benefits that aid your recovery.
One of the most important aspects of rehab is pain management. Whether your injury is mild or severe, there will likely be pain involved. Learning to manage your pain using exercise and medication will make your recovery more comfortable.
Rehab after a sports injury also encourages healing in a couple of ways. The proper methods can increase circulation and cellular metabolism. Damaged tissue heals faster for a shorter recovery period.
Spending too long resting after any injury causes muscles to weaken. The longer you allow this, the more likely atrophy will occur. Rehab after an injury prevents muscular atrophy, strengthening the muscles while increasing range of motion and flexibility. Muscular spasms are also common after a sports injury, though rehab can relieve this problem.
Other benefits of rehabilitation include stimulating joint receptors and increasing lymphatic drainage. Connective and supportive tissue becomes more elastic so you can stretch or extend them comfortably.
Keep in mind that the benefits you’ll see during rehab depend on the injury you’ve sustained and the recommended therapy. Not everyone requires the same type of physical and restorative therapies. It’s best not to assume what works for others will work for you. For the fastest results, follow the advice of your medical team.
How long after an injury should you start rehab?
There is no set time limit on how quickly you should start rehab after a sports injury. When to begin rehab depends on the type of injury you’re dealing with and how serious the damage is.
Regardless of the injury, rest is recommended before any therapy begins. For some, this rest period can last only 72 hours. If the injury is more severe, your physical therapist may recommend ten days or more of rest. Be sure to follow the advice of your medical team to avoid causing further damage to the injured area.
Once you’ve rested for the recommended timespan, you can start your physical therapy. You’ll likely begin with range-of-motion exercises, with more exercise options added as you regain your strength. Rehab after a sports injury can last between a few weeks to several months. The more motivated you are, the faster you’ll reach your recovery goals.
This content comprises informative and educational resources only and can not be considered as a substitute for professional health or medical guidance. Reliance on any information provided in this article is solely at your own risk. If you have any inquiries or apprehensions about your medical condition or health goals, talk with a licensed physician or healthcare provider.
Leave A Comment