Why Is Exercise Important After An Injury?

Maintaining physical fitness requires regular exercise and a consistent healthy lifestyle. However, many people stop exercising due to injury. Sports injuries can happen to anyone, not just professional athletes.

Types of Sports Injuries

Here are common types of injuries that occur during sports:

1. Dislocation

The displacement of a joint from its normal position, often accompanied by damage to the joint capsule and surrounding ligaments.

2. Strain

Damage to a muscle or tendon caused by excessive stretching.

3. Sprain

Damage to a ligament due to overstretching.

4. Fracture

A disruption in the continuity of a bone and/or cartilage, whether it is complete or incomplete.

5. Muscle Cramp

Continuous, uncontrollable muscle contractions caused by disrupted blood circulation.

6. Heat Exhaustion

Fatigue resulting from exposure to high temperatures.

Medical Treatments for Injuries

If the injury does not improve with initial treatment (PRICE), consult a sports medicine specialist immediately. The doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory and pain medications; use immobilization techniques such as splints, slings, and casts; provide massage therapy, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound therapy; and offer exercise therapy to rehabilitate the injured area. If surgery is required, it will be performed by an orthopedic specialist.

For the best recovery from a sports injury, both the surgical procedure and the follow-up exercise regimen must be successful. Post-surgery exercise is important to prevent muscle mass around the injury area from decreasing. Ideally, patients should start exercising within 1–2 days after surgery.

Types of Exercises

1. Pain management

Pain medications are the first option chosen to alleviate any pain following surgery.

2. Other modalities therapy

Other modalities (such as infrared, ultrasound, laser, and paraffin therapy) also play a role in the recovery process for sports injuries. These therapies help reduce pain and swelling. Flexibility exercises are necessary to maintain the range of motion in the joints.

3. Endurance and strength

To restore muscle endurance and strength after an injury, it's important to create a tailored strength and endurance training program based on the patient's condition.

4. Proprioception and balance

Proprioception is the body's ability to detect movement and pressure in soft tissues and trigger reflexes to prevent injury. For example, it helps the body react when stepping onto the edge of a curb to prevent an ankle sprain.

5. Functional exercise

Exercises tailored to the specific type or branch of sport being practiced.

6. Use of orthotics

Using orthotic devices (assistive tools for body movement) to support musculoskeletal function and correct muscle imbalances should be considered during the recovery period.

7. Psychological aspects of injury

Injuries aren't just physical. It's common to feel shocked right after getting hurt. The intensity can vary from mild to severe, depending on the severity of the injury. Therefore, psychological recovery and support are also essential for comprehensive healing.

Reference:

1. Mayo Clinic. How to Optimize Recovery Time After a Sports Injury. (https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/nutrition-fitness/how-to-optimize-recovery-time-after-a-sports-injury/). Diakses pada 22 Oktober 2024.
2. MedlinePlus. Rehabilitation. (https://medlineplus.gov/rehabilitation.html). Diakses pada 22 Oktober 2024.
3. World Health Organization (WHO). Rehabilitation. (https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/rehabilitation). Diakses pada 22 Oktober 2024.
4. MedlinePlus. Exercise and Chronic Disease: Get the Facts. (https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/exercise-and-chronic-disease/art-20046049). Diakses pada 22 Oktober 2024.
5. MedlinePlus. Strength Training: Get Stronger, Leaner, Healthier. (https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/strength-training/art-20046670). Diakses pada 22 Oktober 2024.