Forearm splints are common in athletes, gymnasts, and weight trainers due to tendons unable to withstand stress. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation are used for home treatment, but a doctor should be consulted for medication, physical therapy, and a break from physical activity. Prevention through warming up and stretching is key.
Forearm splints are painful and frustrating injuries that occur most often in athletes, gymnasts, and weight trainers. This type of injury is due to tendons that are unable to withstand the stress that is placed on them. These tissues tear away from the bone or bones they are attached to when a great deal of force is exerted on the muscles around the bones. This type of brace is very similar to a shin brace and generally takes about the same amount of time to heal.
This type of injury usually occurs mostly in athletes who have to put a lot of pressure on their forearms. For example, in gymnasts, forearm splints might be the result of several movements that require them to place their full weight on their arms and hands. In contrast, weightlifters experience this type of injury not from the amount of weight they lift, but from the actual process of lifting and curling the weights themselves.
Sharp and progressive pain usually occurs with forearm splints. This discomfort may not start out that way, though. A person may feel only a dull, mild pain at first. Continued exercise can make the pain worse, so quick treatment is usually needed along with plenty of free time. For the first couple of days after the pain begins, rest, ice, compression, and elevation are typically used at home to treat the pain and inflammation caused by torn tendons.
During this home treatment, a person who has had problems with their forearm should also see a doctor. A doctor is usually able to correctly diagnose the problem and treat it further. You may need medications for inflammation and pain, as well as physical therapy. The doctor should also be able to give the person a specific amount of time to take a break from the physical activity that is causing the problem. Splints can take a few weeks to fully heal.
A break from training or training sessions can cause a lot of problems for athletes who are preparing for events or are in the middle of training. In the first place, preventing forearm splints from occurring is the best course of action and can save many athletes a lot of time, money, and pain. Warming up before any type of sport or exercise can help prevent these types of injuries. Stretching should also help the tendons become flexible and ready for a workout.
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