Running, out of all exercises is one of the best forms of exercise a human can do. Though, as most runners will tell you, (especially if they are training for competition), injuries can occur. Usually, they start as a “niggling ”, hamstring strain or lower back tension and then progress into a chronic type injury. Other types of issues that can occur include severe and or chronic fatigue.
For those avid runners out there; Looking after your body isn’t just a matter of training, eating and sleeping. There is one other factor that we forget, the wear and tear on the body.
Running can cause many types of RSI type injuries, such muscle strain and lower back issues. Though many of these can be avoided if the correct steps are put in place.
These include:
- Not exercising to the point of fatigue. Many people who love their fitness, usually loves to train very hard to the point of fatigue. This actually can be very detrimental by weakening the immune system and causing the type of insomnia where you go to bed very tired but keep waking up and in some cases waking frequently to urinate. Also when your body is constantly in this state of fatigue the likely hood of injuries is much higher and the ability of the body to repair any damage is reduced.
- Make sure you stretch. This is one of the most important aspects of exercise that most people ignore. Stretching releases muscles that have been fatigued and keeps joints mobile, reduces injury, aids in recovery and prevents muscles from seizing up.
- Get enough rest. Rest is probably the most important thing for all athletes. I’m sure I don’t have to go into this to much as we all know how much better we feel after a good nights rest.
To make sure you’re on top of your games at all times. Get regular acupuncture treatment. Acupuncture is a safe and effective form of treatment that gives a helping hand to the body’s natural ability to heal itself. This therapy, is used by many athletes from around the world with very positive results. It aids in keeping the immune system strong, reduces fatigue, combats effectively most injuries and prevents others from occurring.
Many people suffer from performance anxiety before a competition. To help combat this, acupuncturists usually use a ear pellet on the point known as shen men. This is said to have a very calming effect and help that anxiety before a race. Though a bit of nervousness is always a good thing. Especially if you know how to channel it.
Specifically for female athletes, that time of the month can be hard. Not only as a general problem but also when it comes to competitions. Acupuncture is effective in alleviating the associated symptoms by helping to regulate hormones.
When coping with acute or chronic injuries, Acupuncture can reduce inflammation and help the soft tissues of the body repair faster, all without the use of drugs.
In conclusion: By incorporating regular acupuncture treatments into your training program, you can reduce your chance of injury, improve your quality of sleep, improve your immunity, alleviate menstrual complaints and reduce sports performance anxiety. Best of all, acupuncture is pain-free, medication free and has minimal side effects, especially when practiced by a qualified practitioner.
If you want to know more please don’t hesitate to contact us, either at quayhealth.com.au or call us on (02) 9251 3411 to book an appointment.
Darren Geer
Acupuncturist
Darren is the expert in the management of chronic and acute injuries with over 20 years experience helping athletes be their best.
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