How To Prevent And Resolve 5 Hand Issues For Athletes

These five hand issues can arise from exercise. Here’s how to prevent

- SJ Mc Shane, CPT, CN

You spend plenty of time stretching your back, legs and arms, but what about your hands? After all, without them, you’d be unable to lift weights in the first place, and just like any bodypart, your hands can incur an injury during lifting or exercise. Here are some of the most common issues you might get handed in the weight room — what they are, how they feel and how to prevent them. 1.TENDONITIS

Tendons are tough bands of fibrous connective tissue that secure muscle to bone, and constant repetitive movements — as well as lifting a weight that is too heavy — can break down and stress the tendons in your wrists and fingers, causing inflammation and pain. The good news is that tendonitis can be completely cured if treated immediately and properly.

SYMPTOMS

Tightness, aching and/ or burning, especially when gripping or holding heavy things — e.g., pretty much anything you’d find at the gym.

PREVENTION/TREATMENT

If you think you might have tendonitis, lift a little lighter for several weeks to allow your tissues to heal and see whether it resolves, and try some anti-inflammatories to help with the pain. If it persists, take a few weeks completely off from lifting and reassess or see your physician.

2. STRAINS