Hit The Gym – Safely

Although it may not feel like it outside just yet, spring is right around the corner. And, after an especially cold winter of hiding under sweaters and coats, it looks like many New Yorkers are getting ready to hit the gym.
 
While most of us start lifting weights to help tone muscles and get in shape, it’s important to keep in mind that sometimes it’s the actual weight training that can cause a serious injury – especially to our wrists. For example, I often see patients with wrist sprains or other wrist pain that can be traced back to lifting too much weight or lifting weights too quickly at the gym.
 
To help prevent such injuries from occurring, I’ve come up with the tips below. I hope you find that they help you make the most of your gym time while keeping you injury-free.
 
1. When lifting weights, make sure you don’t increase your resistance or repetitions too often and don’t rush your exercise.
 
2. Watch your form when lifting – your wrists should be almost straight, avoid bending completely forward or back, and your hands should be kept close to your body when in the downward position of a lift.
 
3. If you feel pain, swelling, clicking, or reduced motion in your wrists, check your form to see if you are using your wrists to compensate for a weight that’s too heavy.
 
4. To prevent wrist injuries, work on strengthening the musculature of the forearm and add light wrist curls and reverse curls to your workout regime.
 
As always, please feel free to contact my office if you’re experiencing wrist pain while weight lifting or if you have any questions about any of these suggestions.

Healthiest regards,
Dr. Pruzansky