New Year, New You?
As the festivities are left behind, we begin to make our plans and resolutions for the year ahead.
Through January there is a surge of gym membership with people looking to become fitter and healthier.
However taking on an exercise regime that your body is not use to can have its toll on the body and thus can lead to injury and pain.
Therefore we advise that you prepare yourself prior to embarking on any new programmes or activities.
Research
According to research by the British Chiropractic Association:
"Exercise is the trigger for 30% of those experiencing back or neck pain. For people embarking on an exercise regime, especially one that is new, the risk of suffering neck or back pain can be higher so it is important to be well prepared".
Top Tips
• Seek professional advice to check that there are no medical reasons why you should not exercise, particularly if you are not normally physically active.
• Remember to warm up and warm down before and after any activity. Start with less strenuous activity like walking or jogging and finish with some light stretches at the end of an exercise session – this may help minimise muscle stiffness and reduce the chance of muscle strain.
• Keep well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids before, during and after exercise – this will help your muscles work more efficiently and will reduce aches and pains after exercise.
• Make sure you wear the right attire for your chosen activity. Wearing tight clothes when exercising could constrict your movement and lead to injury.
• Wear appropriate footwear for the type of exercise you are doing – most specialist sportswear retailers will be able to advise you on this.
• If you are enrolling in a gym, make sure you receive training on any equipment and if you are signing up to a programme, try and make sure you get proper training, advice and ongoing supervision.
Why not chose Chiropractic as your new years resolution?
Chiropractic is a regulated primary healthcare profession. Chiropractors diagnose, treat, manage and prevent disorders of the musculoskeletal system (bones, joints and muscles), as well as the effects these disorders can have on the nervous system and general health.
Chiropractic uses a range of techniques to reduce pain, improve function and increase mobility. We offer a package of care which includes treatment as well as advice on self-help, therapeutic exercises, and lifestyle changes.
We can provide advice on how to approach a new exercise routine and tell you what signs to look out for if you overdoing it.
Summary
The above information is for guidance only and is not exclusive. It is important to ensure you are prepared, and have the right guidance into carrying out a new regime/exercise to avoid any repercussions.
Staying committed to maintaining a healthy back is a life long commitment.
Here at the Whitchurch Clinic we are there to help with each step by offering a range of therapies:
- Chiropractic care
- One to one personal training
- Hypnotherapy
- Sports Massage
- Diet Advice
If you require any further information on any of the above please do not hesitate to contact our clinic on 02920 617700 for an informal discussion.