Engaging in sports involves exciting competitions, but it can also entail injuries. Sports injuries tend to happen most frequently to the knees, ankles, hands, wrists, elbows and shoulders.
A key way to keep yourself strong and injury-free is through exercise. Your muscles need to be strong, limber and you need to teach your body “muscle memory” of the movements necessary to play your chosen sport.
Let’s talk about why targeted exercises are so important for even casual athletes, and where you can go in Baltimore and throughout Maryland to see an outstanding sports medicine doctor who specializes in treating and strengthening the upper extremities.
# 1. Exercise Helps to Maintain and Improve Your Athletic Performance
Athletes aim to achieve peak performance. As you train for your sport, you learn about techniques, routines, your strengths and limitations. The key point is: You’re always working to improve.
One of the best ways to challenge yourself is through exercise and exploring new routines. Your orthopedic doctor can advise you on new positions, techniques and/or equipment to try out.
Furthermore, the sports medicine doctor can also give you some helpful medical advice on the following:
- Warm-up and cool-down exercises and stretches
- Conditioning techniques for strength and endurance
- The best food and drink combination before competing
- Ideal drink and refreshment during breaks in a competition
#2. Exercise Promotes Better Sleep
When a competition is coming up you may feel stress and pressure, which can negatively affect your sleeping patterns. You may find yourself awake late at night, despite a tiring workout.
Because a lack of sleep can directly affect your performance, endurance and concentration, be sure that you engage in exercise at least 2 hours before you fall asleep. If you exercise too closely to bedtime, you are likely to be too “jazzed” to calm down and get that much-needed shut-eye.
#3. Exercise Helps to Combat Disease and Injuries
Athletes are not exempt from illnesses and injuries despite their extra levels of cardiovascular health and strength. Of course, you are actually even more susceptible to certain injuries depending on the sports you play.
However, regular exercise can help you prevent issues like high blood pressure (hypertension), stroke, heart attack and cancer. Indeed, a healthy regular dose of exercise can:
- Lower your blood pressure
- Improve your cardiovascular health
- Help you control your weight
- Help you maintain strong, healthy bones and muscles
Reliable Sports Medicine Doctor in Baltimore, MD
If you’re looking for a sports doctor in Baltimore who can help you improve your athletic performance, our orthopedic medical specialists at Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder are ready to help.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with a hand and arm specialist, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (410) 296-6232 or by filling out our simple appointment request form online now. We look forward to being your sports medicine partner!
