Hockey Workout Tips: Four Methods to Help Deal with an Injury

The vast majority of serious hockey players do a fair amount of off ice conditioning. Unfortunately, injuries do occur, often from improper lifting techniques or overextending themselves and using too much weight. When an injury occurs, it is important that a player properly heals so that he or she is able to return to the game at some point during the season. Four of the most common methods to help deal with an injury include rest, using ice, compressing in injured area, and elevating an injury when possible. While this may not help for all injuries, many minor injuries can be improved using some of these techniques.

When a hockey player sustains an injury while working out, he or she should stop exercising right away. There is no reason to continue, as you will often just make the situation worse. Resting is extremely important as your body needs time to heal itself. You should wait several days to ensure that the pain is gone, and possibly even go to a doctor to determine if you should be exercising again.

Another thing that can help with hockey injuries is ice. If you have an injury that causes pain or swelling, ice can help reduce it. You should use the ice in several small time increments, rather than just using it all day long. You should apply something in between the ice and the skin so that you can help prevent ice burns.

Compression is another thing that a hockey player can do after an injury. Putting pressure on the injury can help keep the swelling down. If you visit your local pharmacy they should have specially designed wraps and braces that can help you with this. It should be tight enough so that you can feel some compression, but if you wrap it too tight you can cut off circulation.

Finally, elevation is another tool that hockey players can use to help with their injuries. By elevating a body part, it helps to drain out fluids that can cause swelling. You can accomplish this by simply propping the injured limp on something like a couple of pillows. Remember, you should always consult with a doctor if you have an injury, but these steps can help reduce some of the immediate pain.

Sources:

Science of Hockey
Ice Hockey Helmet