Keeping moving
Keeping moving is helpful for most common musculoskeletal conditions. The body loves movement and will make the best recovery when used in a healthy way. Exercise strengthens the muscles, nerves, and bones, and helps the cartilage. This can help to prevent further injuries and niggles from starting.
There are many ways to exercise, the best type is one you enjoy. Walking, cycling, and swimming are good examples of ways to keep healthy and moving while getting better from an injury. Gardening, housework and dancing are alternatives that you could try. A low level of pain during and after the exercises is acceptable and is not a sign of doing more damage. You can be 'sore but safe'.
It is important that you build up your activity slowly. This prevents your body from working too hard, too quickly. For example, try pacing by doing 10 minutes per day one week, followed by 15 minutes per day the week after. You could also break up your day by doing a short walk every few hours, for example. It is helpful to add in enough rest between activities and listen to your body if it is telling you that it needs a break!
If you are waiting for surgery, for example a joint replacement, then being as strong and healthy as possible before the surgery can help make your recovery afterwards much easier.
More information on exercise can be found on the NHS website, by clicking this link.
Keeping moving is also important for those looking to lose weight. Carrying excess body weight places more strain on our body and can make recovery from injury slower.
Live Life Better Derbyshire are an organisation who offer free help to people who want to feel fitter, lose weight or quit smoking. They are trained to guide and support you through your process. You can access their website through this link.
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