We recently took a look at the ways that baby boomers can improve their fitness levels on the whole, but those persons who have already achieved balance within their exercise regimen may want some more intensive direction on how to prevent injury. To that end, such parties may consider the advice on hand from a new report out of Arizona. The tips are focused on preventing those types of injuries that are most common among the baby boomer population.
Starting at the bottom and working our way up, the first thing that baby boomers have to worry about is plantar fascitis. This is what it’s called when you experience inflammation and pain along the bottom of your foot, on the tissue extending from your toes to your heel. The best way to avoid this type of injury is to stretch and minimize impact. You might invest in shoes that provide additional heel protection and think about engaging in those activities that don’t require you to constantly strike your foot against the ground. An elliptical or rowing exercise, for instance, would be acceptable.
Wearing the right shoes and stretching are a common theme for any type of injury prevention, and that goes for avoiding ankle problems as well. You can avoid these types of problems by investing in shoes that fit comfortably and that have proper arch support. Avoid running on surfaces that are uneven or otherwise pockmarked, as all it takes is one improper placement to contribute to a sprain or even a fracture.
Your meniscus, which protects your knee from excessive impacts, will deteriorate as you get older, and minimizing impact will help to protect this part of the body in turn. If an injury does occur, you may have to undergo an arthroscopic repair, along with the rehabilitation regimen that requires. To prevent such a serious occurrence, conduct those exercises that limit impact and twisting motions.
Hip inflammation, which is medically known as tronchanteric bursitis, can cause you immense pain, and you should strive to avoid this as well. You can do so by developing strength in that area through a targeted lifting regimen. A physical therapist or a trainer should be able to turn you onto the right kind of weights and equipment.
A tear of the rotator cuff is another serious matter that can be avoided by developing strength, this time in the area of the shoulder. Improving the flexibility of your arms, even if you only plan on running, is vital.
For the treatment of any and all of these things, speak with a doctor to learn about whether or not you could benefit from such things as medication, steroid injections, or simple rest and ice.
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