Signs You Might Be Injured: Listen to Your Body
Often when I am out at an event or race someone will ask -”Do you think I need to come into the clinic?” and then they explain how they feel. Most of us are unsure of when to get help. But we do not want to push through discomfort during workouts or dismiss nagging pains as temporary, many of us tend to ignore signals from our bodies. However, understanding when you might be injured is crucial for your long-term health and well-being. This checklist can be used to help you decide if you need our help.
Here are some signs that you might be injured and need to pay attention to:
Persistent Pain: Pain is your body's way of signaling that something isn't right. While minor aches and pains are normal when you are training, persistent or worsening pain should not be ignored. If you're experiencing pain that lasts beyond the duration of an activity, it's essential to assess the situation and seek medical advice if needed. Ignoring persistent pain can lead to further injury and complications. Our guide here is, sharp pain is never good but low level soreness and achiness can be normal with activity.
Swelling and Inflammation: Swelling, redness, and inflammation are common signs of injury, indicating that your body is responding to tissue damage. Whether it's a sprain, strain, or other types of injury, swelling is often present as part of the healing process. However, if the swelling is excessive or doesn't improve over time, it could be a sign of a more severe injury that requires medical attention.
Limited Range of Motion: If you notice a decrease in your range of motion or stiffness in a joint, it could indicate an underlying injury. Whether it's difficulty bending your knee or lifting your arm overhead, reduced mobility can be a sign of joint or muscle injury. Ignoring limited range of motion can lead to further complications, including chronic pain and disability. Pay special attention if one side of the body is moving differently than the other.
Weakness or Instability: Weakness or instability in a particular area of your body can indicate muscle or ligament injury. If you feel like you're unable to bear weight properly or maintain balance, it's essential to address the issue before it worsens. Weakness and instability can increase the risk of further injury and impair your ability to perform daily activities.
Difficulty Performing Activities: If you're finding it challenging to perform activities that were previously easy for you, it could be a sign of injury. Whether it's running, lifting weights, or even simple tasks like walking or climbing stairs, difficulty performing activities you once did effortlessly warrants attention. Pushing through the pain can exacerbate the injury and delay the healing process.
In conclusion, it's essential to listen to your body and recognize signs of injury before they escalate. Ignoring these signs can lead to further complications and long-term damage. If you suspect you're injured, it's crucial to ask for help and receive the appropriate treatment to prevent further injury. Remember, taking care of your body now will benefit you in the long run.