Whether you’re an elite athlete or a weekend warrior, no one wants to be sidelined by sports injuries. While some discomfort is a normal part of strengthening and conditioning your body, certain types of pain should not be ignored. Here’s how to know when it’s time to see an expert and when your body is ready for action again.

When to See a Sports Rehab Expert

Typical muscle soreness is usually symmetrical in the left and right sides, fades after two or three days, and sometimes worsens when you sit still and then resume activity. Pain from an injury can be sharp or stabbing, limited to a single area or side of the body, and is more likely to set in during your workout, rather than after. If the pain is still there after seven days, it’s time to consult a professional.

You should also follow the RICE method for sports injury recovery. That’s rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Reduce activity for the affected area as much as possible, use a cold pack and compression sleeves, and if possible, elevate the body part to help reduce swelling.

When to Get Back in the Game

If you’re seeing a sports rehab specialist, do not resume regular workouts until they’ve cleared you for activity and the pain has subsided. When you are healed, start slowly to regain your strength and fitness. If you jump back into the workout you were doing before getting hurt, you risk re-injury and even more time away from the physical activity you love. 

The sports rehab experts at Snyder Physical Therapy & Sports Rehabilitation in Lincoln, NE, keep athletes in the game and performing at their best. Serving Lancaster County, they use the latest equipment and training to create customized, comprehensive treatment plans that will help you recover faster from sports injuries or surgery. They also offer a runner’s clinic to evaluate your form and help you prevent future issues. Call (402) 489-1999 or visit them online to request an appointment today.