Common Workout Injuries
The intensity of a workout causes an adrenaline rush that pushes your body up to its limit, and then beyond. Although that adrenaline can help you get the maximum results from your training, it might also prevent you from hearing the warning signs of an injury.
At the first hint of pain, muscles and joints send out signals that alert a person of the pending danger. In the middle of a grueling workout, some people ignore those signals and work through the pain on pure adrenaline. When the rush subsides, the healing process becomes more difficult, and the possibility of an injury is substantially increased.
Muscle Tears
Presenting your muscles with resistance and challenging them to become stronger is all part of a great workout. Along with this, a certain level of discomfort is to be expected. In fact, the “burn” from an exercise can be an excellent motivator. However, there is a huge difference between discomfort and pain.
Muscle fibers are broken down during intense training and rebuild as they recover. A torn muscle is much more serious and will take longer to heal. The consequence of this type of injury is that you will most likely not be able to lift or exercise until the muscle heals fully. Losing size and definition are other negative aspects to a muscle tear.
In order to avoid the abrupt tearing of a muscle, just follow three simple steps. First, always stretch and warm-up before any workout. Next, use the proper form at all times and make sure that your body is supported. And third, do not attempt to lift weights that compromise the exercise’s form. Muscle tears are common for shoulders, biceps, triceps, and legs.
Joint Pain
Runners know about joint pains because of the constant impact that their ligaments encounter. Eventually, the joints become worn down under stress. In some cases, sprains and fractures can also occur.
Be careful and choose your workout space accordingly. Many running tracks have rocks or uneven terrains that make it easier for inconsistent or unnecessary strain. Instead, pick an even surface, or better yet, try a workout station with a full range of motion. Bicycle riding and swimming are excellent on joints and they reduce the stress significantly.
Back Injuries
A person is more prone to a back injury while lifting heavy objects, in or out of a gym. If you have had back problems before, take extra precautions when exercising by wearing a lifting belt and monitoring the weight you are using. Do not place your back in a compromising position and bend down to pick up barbells or dumbbells. Lift with your legs and use your knees as leverage.
Know Your Body
You know and understand your body better than anyone else, so it is up to you to pay attention to the messages it is sending. Workout injuries range from mild annoyances to long-term damage.
Consult with your physician or personal trainer to design an exercise program that is right for your individual fitness level and goals. Be aware of the workout conditions and put your health first by taking the essential steps to prevent an injury.
Sources:
http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=54809[5]
http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/ankle-injuries-causes-and-treatments[6]
http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/features/when-not-to-exercise[7]
