Movement is a Journey: Is Your Body Prepared?
Now that May is here, many of us are getting fully back to our outdoor routines. Whether you are hitting the local trails, getting back on the golf course, or cheering from the sidelines of a soccer field, your movement journey is likely in full swing.
However, as we increase our activity levels, it's common to notice that our bodies aren't responding quite like they did last year. Shaking off the winter rust often takes more than just a few weeks of light activity.
Don’t Let a Break Lead to an Injury
It is easy to expect our bodies to pick up exactly where we left off at the end of last season. But jumping right back into those activity levels after months off is often a recipe for an injury. Even if you feel great during your first few outings, the cumulative stress of repetitive motion, like running or sports, can quickly stir up aches and pains.
This is especially true as we age, because our ability to move undergoes natural changes over time. Without proper planning, a sudden increase in intensity can lead to avoidable injuries that might sideline you for the rest of the summer.
Physical Therapists: Your Movement Consultants
Most people think of physical therapy as something you do only after a surgery or a major accident. In reality, you should think of a physical therapist as a movement consultant.
Here is how a quick check-up can help you stay active this season:
- Injury Prevention: We are trained to identify movement patterns that cause pain before a major injury occurs.
- Customized Planning: We can create a plan to help you safely transition back to your favorite sports or leisure activities.
- Pain Management: If those morning jogs are already causing knee or back discomfort, we can help ease that pain and keep you moving.
Stay in the Game
The goal is to ensure your body is physically ready to take on the challenges of a busy, active summer. Don't wait for a small ache to become a season-ending injury.
Ready to move better? Give our clinic a call today to schedule your movement screening!
References & Further Reading
- ChoosePT (American Physical Therapy Association): Benefits of Physical Therapy
- Mayo Clinic: Overuse Injury: How to Prevent Training Injuries
- Johns Hopkins Medicine: Common Sports Injuries