Gloss How-To: Exercising With Injuries

A few years ago, I took a tumble down a flight of stairs. I’ll spare you all the medical mumbo-jumbo, but suffice it to say my knee has never been the same. I have good days where my knee is strong and I can participate in pretty much any activity, but then there are the days where it flares up and I want nothing more than to sit on my couch and veg. I’ve learned though, that most injuries aren’t an excuse to avoid exercise…they’re just an opportunity to try something new.

If you have an injury, you just have to learn to safely work (and work out) around it:

- Ask your doctor for advice. Your health care professional will be able to define any limitations you have and what activities you should avoid while your injury is healing. You can even ask your doctor for suggestions of activities you can safely participate in.

- Avoid the area. Other than any prescribed therapy exercises, avoid exercising the injured area. For example, when my knee is really acting up, I can do upper body strength exercises or hop in the pool and swim for a while.

- Listen to your body. If your activity is hurting the injured area, stop. You don’t want to aggravate an injury.

- Be creative. You may not be able to participate in your typical exercise routine, but there are always ways to move your body.

- Brace yourself. Be sure to wear any braces or supportive devices recommended by your doctor.

- Ice, ice baby. If your injured area is prone to swelling, ice it after your workout.