Indulging in sports can be a fun hobby or profession. Although they can be rewarding, sports require a focus on health because injuries can strike in many ways. Chronic pain is important to understand because it won’t make itself known immediately. Identify and fix your pain by reading this guide to what you need to know about chronic injuries and sports.
Chronic vs. Acute
It’s important to distinguish between chronic and acute injuries because they occur in different ways. Acute injuries are sudden injuries that often happen due to accidents. For instance, falling during game time and breaking a bone is an acute injury. Chronic injuries occur slowly over time due to repetitive actions.
It’s not surprising that many chronic injuries are frequently associated with sports. For example, tennis elbow is a chronic injury that develops due to the athlete’s reliance on their elbows when using the racket. Overworking the elbow will damage it, no matter what sport you play. Runner’s knee is another chronic injury that develops due to overuse of the knee.
Identifying the Symptoms
You know a bit more about sports injuries and their symptoms, but there is more to explore. After all, acute injuries happen during accidents, so they are easier to notice. Swelling around the affected area is a symptom of a chronic injury over a long period.
Pain when performing a specific task indicates the action may be causing physical damage. However, when you have chronic pain, there will still be a dull ache in the affected area. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, then it’s time to seek solutions.
Considering the Solutions
When discussing chronic injuries and sports, you need to know solutions. After all, chronic pain occurs due to physical activity, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer for what you love. Treatment starts with talking to a chronic pain specialist.
At Anodyne, our team can provide Tenex procedures for elbows. Tennis elbow is one of the reasons you may need this treatment. That said, treatment that works for one patient may not work for you. Consult a chronic pain expert to develop a plan for your body. Your ability to enjoy the sports you love doesn’t have to stop for chronic injuries.