Spring is a time of awakening. As we wake up from our winter slumber, we are eager to be more active. This could mean getting back to recreational activities such as hiking, biking, or participating in an outdoor sport. Or it could mean doing housekeeping activities such as spring cleaning or gardening. Returning at full force may lead to an injury or a flare-up of a chronic condition. Here are some tips to consider should you reengage a chronic condition:
- It is always a good idea to warm up before and cool down after an activity.
- Gentle stretching prior to an activity can prevent a muscle strain while gentle stretching after can decrease soreness.
- While it may be tough to slow down, breaking down the activities into short intervals can prevent fatigue.
- Eating a healthy diet of lean proteins and vegetables can improve your endurance.
- Even when the weather is mild, be sure to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
- To boost your confidence and enjoyment, set realistic goals.
- To improve your performance, seek professional tips from a tennis or golf coach.
- Maintaining your equipment and tools in proper condition can decrease stress on your joints.
- Building up the handles on your tools will lessen hand pain.
- Wearing sunscreen will not only protect your skin from harmful UV rays; it will preserve its youthfulness.
Following these tips will help you to enjoy the cool spring weather but if you do encounter a chronic condition in your hands or upper extremity our team at The Milliken Hand Rehabilitation Center is here to help!