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Artistic gymnastics

Getting the best out of sport

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Sport has become a way of life for many in the UK, with participants ranging from elite athletes to those who just want to keep fit. But what happens if you get an injury?

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Participating in sports too often or too hard may result in an injury. Not warming up properly beforehand, or warm down and stretch after exercise may also result in strains. Using inappropriate equipment or wearing the wrong footwear may likewise hinder your performance. An unresolved prior injury, which might not even be related to sport, can make it difficult to even get started.

Osteopathy and Sport

Sports Injury

How can your osteopath help?

It is common to feel some minor discomfort after training, as the body takes a little time to recover and adapt to the demands of your activities. Soreness often quickly resolves itself, but occasionally it may persist for more than a few days or make it difficult for you to continue your normal activities. In these instances you may want to seek advice from an osteopath. 

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Osteopathic care is based on the individual needs of the patient and so varies depending on your age, fitness levels and diagnosis.

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Osteopaths use a wide range of gentle hands-on techniques that focus on releasing tension, stretching muscles and mobilising joints. These are often used with exercise and helpful advice, sometimes together with strapping or taping, all of which are designed to relieve your pain, help you return to your normal activity levels and maintain the best of health. 

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The good news is that although sports injuries are common, those who are active and have experience of following exercise routines may find they recover more quickly and easily from their injuries. 

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How can you help yourself?

  • Begin your activity slowly and build up intensity, especially after an injury

  • Drink plenty of water when you are thirsty, especially if exercising

  • Exercise regularly and try to vary the types of exercise you do for all over body fitness

  • If you believe you have an injured limb, then rest, ice compression and elevation may help, but seek advice if you are worried

  • Normal soft tissue healing time can take up to 12 weeks (if no other injuries occur). If you're worried at all about an injury in the short, medium or long term, it is worth seeking advice

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