If you’re a person who lives an active life, you want your body to be in tip-top shape. In your quest for a stronger, better physique, you’ve probably come across countless pieces of advice.
Even if you try to be judicious about the tips you follow, it can be hard to distinguish the facts from the fiction. Some of the medical tips you may hear can actually cause harm.
Let’s talk about a few widespread myths within the realm of sports medicine, and where you can go in Dallas for outstanding chiropractic and orthopedic treatment.
Myth #1: It Doesn’t Matter How You Warm Up Before Exercise
Not all warm-ups are equal. One recent study found that static stretching, or holding out a stretch for a period of time, does not affect your power and agility performance. However, doing dynamic stretching does.
Dynamic stretching prepares your body for exercise by directing more blood flow to your muscles and tendons. As a result, you increase your flexibility and reduce the risk of injury.
Some examples of dynamic stretches you can do before a strenuous physical activity include:
- High knee lifts
- Slow arm circles
- Jumping jacks
Myth #2: Lifting Weights at a Young Age Will Hinder Growth
Some parents don’t encourage their children to lift weights because they believe it could interfere with their physical growth. However, research shows that lifting weights does not negatively impact growth or maturation for adolescents.
This myth probably started because people were concerned about their children having injuries to their growth plates, which are the ends of the bones that are still growing. However, virtually everyone can reap the benefits of strength training, regardless of age.
Myth #3: Always Use Heat Packs to Treat Your Injuries
Many athletes turn to heat packs as first aid for their internal sports injuries – after all, the warmth feels good on the sore area. However, heat treatments increase blood flow and thereby promote swelling, so heat should only be used after using an ice pack on the injury. The cold slightly constricts the blood vessels, causing numbing, which reduces pain and swelling.
That’s why ice packs should be used first, especially during the first two or three days after the injury. You can make ice packs using ice cubes or blocks placed in a sealed plastic bag, covered with a towel so as to avoid direct contact with the skin.
It’s crucial to remember not to place a hot pack or a cold pack directly on your skin. Packs must also not be used for more than 30 minutes. If you’re starting to experience a burning sensation in the area, remove it immediately.
Myth #4: No Pain, No Gain
Some people believe that a workout only becomes effective when they feel pain. A bit of discomfort is normal, but pain is an indicator that you should stop what you’re doing. Your body may be too overtaxed to keep up with the demands you’re putting on it.
Pain is still, and will always be, your body’s way of notifying you that something is wrong. If you’d like feedback about your exercise regimen, it’s best to seek the expertise of a sports medicine physician.
Sports Medicine Specialists in Dallas, Texas
Many of us hold misconceptions about how our bodies function. In learning to question these assumptions, we can improve the way we train and better our performance.
Indeed, you’ll feel more empowered to play sports or engage in physical activities when you know the right techniques and strategies. And what better way to get this information than from a sports medicine specialist?
Here at Reagan Integrated Sports Medicine, we make sure that we have the most up-to-date information and treatments for your benefit. Our excellent physicians are ready to accommodate and cater to all your sports medicine needs.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, contact our friendly staff today by calling (972) 503-7272 or by using our online request form. We look forward to helping you achieve your fullest potential!
