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Aching Muscles, Aching Tendons
"I
woke up this morning with an aching Achilles
tendon. What usually causes that and how can I
stretch it out?"
It is not an uncommon
situation: wake up in the morning with a stiff or
sore something. Sometimes you are well aware of why
your hamstrings are "tight", but other times you
have no clue. You are at a lost for words when you
put the feet on the floor, after a good nights rest,
and bang! Something is "screaming" at you.
I can personally relate to this situation, and what
to do about it takes some explaining. A situation
like the one described above can be caused by any
number of situations. It could be as simple as a
cramp. Requiring a little massage, maybe a couple of
aspirin, and a light day of activity. Additionally,
you could have pulled or strained a muscle during
the previous day, and not until the muscle "cooled
down" did you feel it.
Strains and pulls
require more attention. I would suggest the
utilization of ice (20 minutes 2 times per day),
aspirin (if okay by your physician), and a few days
off the old the exercise bike. This will give the
opportunity for the body to rest and repair. I would
also say we need to look at the bigger picture, and
look at the root of the problem. Strains, pulls, and
cramps do occur, but we can enlist activities that
decrease the probability of them occurring.
I have found through my
experiences; a combination of regular exercises,
proper nutrition, and rest. Prevent strains and
pulls occurring. The reason behind my logic is as
follows: A body that is properly fueled, adequately
rested, and physically healthy tends not to "break
down". It can handle the rigors of daily life,
stress, and the weekend golf game. Put a plan
together that encompasses these three entities, and
the resilience of your body will improve. All it
takes is a little determination and awareness. In no
time you find yourself bounding out of bed and
racing to the coffee maker!
Sean Cochran
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