How to recover from injury

(Me pictured with senior physiotherapist Rob Madden, The Varney Practice Enfield)

Tis the season to get injured!

January is the month of New Years resolutions and, coupled with the London Olympic Games, many of us are choosing yoga and other exercise classes to shift a few festive pounds. But my advice is to take it slowly and avoid pushing too hard because, and this is your seasoned yoga teacher talking here, if you don't it’s going to hurt!

It was after a weekend of dancing that I woke with excruciating pain in my hip. It was so inflamed and painful that I couldn’t walk. But thanks to three simple steps my recovery was quick and within three days I was able to move freely again and return to work.

Here are my three top tips to help you heal and recover from injury quickly

1. Seek professional help

Make an appointment with your GP and have a thorough examination asap. This will help rule out anything of a serious nature. Then get the number of a good physiotherapist. Your GP can refer you or you can go privately.

2. R.I.C.E

Rest – initial rest is paramount for recovery, avoid any limbering or stretching at this stage

Ice – Cold pack or bag of peas, on and off every 7 minutes for about 20 mins

Compress – If area is swollen then wrap in a bandage to compress the injury

Elevation - Elevating an injury helps control swelling and is most effective when the injured area is raised above the level of the heart

3. Take a good anti-inflammatory

Under the instruction and approval of your GP start taking a good anti-inflammatory and drink lots of water

There are many ways to heal from an injury but the steps above can help bring initial relief and aid you to recovery. Always take regular exercise and eat a balanced diet to maintain your health and wellbeing.

Recommended Physiotherapist – Rob Madden, The Varney Practice 02083670321