A chiropractor in Merritt Island is no stranger to seeing patients that have injured themselves working out or playing sports. Pulled muscles, strains, sprains, ligament tears, and misaligned discs are all part of the practice. Virtually every type of fitness injury can be successfully assessed and treated with chiropractic care, but prevention is an even better prescription. Here are some fitness tips from a chiropractor in Merritt Island you should take to heart.

Importance of Your Warm Up

Quite often the stage is set for an injury even before you begin to exercise. Warming up is an integral part of any safe fitness regimen, but it’s also a step that many people tend to neglect. If your muscles are cold and tight and you launch right into exercise, you increase the risk of pulling a hamstring, straining your lower back, or tearing a ligament. Light stretching or some gentle calisthenics before you exercise will get the blood flowing, lengthen your muscles, and reduce the likelihood of getting hurt.

Proper Technique to Reduce Injury

Using the proper technique while performing specific exercise or playing your sport is also a critical element for preventing an injury. Learn how to perform the exercises and movements correctly, then follow those instructions every time you play or practice. Always try to stay within your own skill level and don’t overdo it. Being competitive is great, but pushing yourself too hard may end up putting you out of commission for an extended period of time.

Flexible Muscles Recover Faster

Maintaining good flexibility in all your muscle groups will help your athletic ability and it will prevent injury. Develop a stretching routine and stick to it so you won’t have to visit a chiropractor in Merritt Island with an injury you could have prevented. At the very least, stretch the muscles that you use the most in your specific sport or activity.

Critical Cool Downs

Cooling down properly after exercise is another important fitness tip that Merritt Island chiropractors recommend. After your exercise session or game, make sure you take 10 or 15 minutes and stretch out your muscles and joints before you finish up. Just like with the warm up, cooling down will help you avoid strains, sprains, and muscle pulls.

Remember to drink water throughout the day to keep your muscles and discs well hydrated. This will also go a long way toward preventing injury. If you do happen to hurt yourself, despite you best prevention efforts, don’t hesitate to call a chiropractor and get the treatment process started. The sooner you begin the sooner you’ll be healed and back at it.  Our outstanding team at Merritt Island Chiropractic is here to help.