What is the Proper Way to Ice an Injury?

Most of us know that the first thing you do when you get a musculoskeletal injury such as a strain or a sprain is to do cold treatment. Icing helps in mitigating swelling and reducing pain, which happens right after injuries. 

But how exactly does one utilize proper icing method? Is there a special way to do it?

It actually depends on the injury and how severe it is. Doctors suggest applying ice on the injury for about 15 minutes or for as long as it can be tolerated. You should put the ice in an ice pack or a wash cloth to prevent direct contact of the ice to the skin. Direct contact can cause frostbite.

Wait for at least an hour before applying ice again. Repeat the process for 48 hours until the swelling subsides. 

You should also have it checked out by a doctor. What might seem like a simple strain may actually be a more serious problem such as torn ligaments or a fracture. You would need to get more intensive treatments for those. 

The sooner you can get physiotherapy in North Vancouver from clinics like Avita Health & Massage Therapy Center, the better. Studies show that people who get physiotherapy in North Vancouver are less likely to suffer from long-term pain and reinjuries. They can also heal up faster compared to those who did not get physiotherapy. Icing is just a first aid solution though. Make sure you look for ones that can provide long-term benefit.

To know more about physiotherapy North Vancouver please visit the website.

Helpful Tips in Dealing with Musculoskeletal Injuries While Traveling

Musculoskeletal injuries can prevent you from doing a wide range of motion. Since it can restrict your movements, you would want to avoid overexerting yourself lest you make the injury worse. If you are traveling, however, there are certain things you can do to manage your injuries. 

Go to Physiotherapy Clinics in North Shore 

Consult an expert in physiotherapy first before your scheduled trip. Physiotherapy helps in the rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries. At physiotherapy clinics in North Shore, you will be able to manage pain and even speed up the healing process of these injuries. Avita Health & Massage Therapy Center can help musculoskeletal injury sufferers out there. 

Use Compression Technology

There are compression bands and clothing you can use to help provide support and improve circulation on the parts affected. You can wear these compression gears while in the plane for long hours or while walking or sightseeing. 

Rest Regularly 

Take breaks in between all the sightseeing to avoid taxing your injured or aching body part. 

Travel Light

Carrying a heavy load might take a toll on your injuries, so try to travel light. You can also use bags that are more ergonomic or are easier to carry

Take Your Medications 

If you are still taking medications for these injuries, don’t forget to take them to help speed up your healing. 

Pace yourself as well. If too much walking will worsen the injuries, slow down and take brief breaks in between. You can also bring aids to help you become more mobile. 

To know more about physiotherapy clinics North Shore please visit the website.

Maintaining Healthy Knees as You Get Older – What You Can Do

You probably don’t pay that much attention to your knees – until you suffer from a knee injury or you acquire illnesses like arthritis. Knee pain can be all-encompassing. It can interfere with your life and prevent you from doing the things you love to do. 

Before knee pain even becomes a big presence in your life, already go the extra mile in keeping them healthy. Here are the things you can do: 

1.Get rid of your bad vices. 

Smoking is harmful to the musculoskeletal system. It prevents the good circulation of blood into the cartilages, joints and muscles, which can then cause inflammation and premature death of these musculoskeletal parts. 

2.Drink plenty of water.

Hydrating your joints is crucial. If the cartilage that surrounds the joints is dehydrated, the joints will eventually become affected. 

3.Increase your intake of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids. 

Omega-3 fatty acids are helpful in keeping the joints lubricated and lowering the chances of an inflammation. You can get this nutrient from fishes such as salmon and tuna. There are also supplements you can take to help supply your body with omega-3 fatty acids 

4.See physiotherapists in North Vancouver. 

Lack of exercise can make those joints tight and also make you susceptible to injuries as you get older. Make an exercise plan with the help of North Vancouver physiotherapists to keep your joints healthy and strong. 

Go to a physiotherapy clinic such as Avita Health & Massage Therapy Center if you always want to promote healthy joints. 

To know more about North Vancouver physiotherapists please visit the website.