Whether you’re a professional athlete or a workout enthusiast, keeping your body healthy and in harmony is always a top priority. In the event you sustain a sports injury, proper care is imperative to avoid longterm pain or performance issues. With this in mind, here’s a list of steps to follow if you are injured while exercising. 

4 Steps to Follow After Sustaining a Sports Injury

1. See a Doctor

If you’re in pain or you notice swelling, bruising, or tenderness in a muscle, joint, or bone, schedule an appointment with a doctor right away. This health care professional can perform a series of tests and schedule X-rays to get a closer look at the issue at hand. 

2. Rest & Follow Medical Recommendations

Once a medical professional confirms the problem and has prescribed a treatment plan, rearrange your schedule and workout routine to allow time to rest and recover. If the sports injury requires you to wear a cast, brace, or boot or take certain medications, follow the doctor’s recommendations to the letter so you heal properly. 

3. Find a Physical Therapist

Studies have found that visiting a physical therapist can help you regain motor function in a shorter time. Therefore, abide by their recommendations for stretching and strength conditioning.

4. Pace Your Rehabilitation

It can take weeks or even months to successfully regain mobility, strength, and dexterity. While the process can feel slow and challenging, be mindful of how your body feels. Work up to longer and harder workouts and check in with both your doctor and physical therapist regularly to preserve your overall wellness. 

If you call Buffalo County, NE, home, Family Physical Therapy & Sports Center, based in the heart of Kearney, is your one-stop shop for physical rehabilitation, sports injury treatment, or speech pathology. With a team of experienced and dedicated physical therapists on hand, you can trust this state-of-the-art clinic to provide encouraging and effective treatment. To schedule an appointment, call today at (308) 236-5884. For more information on their comprehensive services, from minimizing lower back pain to helping athletes enhance their conditioning, visit their website.