You finally did it! After hours of planning, weeks of training, and an entire day of climbing, you are now standing on top of the world. The view is incredible, but you feel a sense of exhaustion and pain in your muscles that you weren’t expecting. Don’t worry – this is totally normal! You just pushed yourself to the limit, and your body needs a break after all that hard work.
But now, as your body begins to relax and the adrenaline starts to wear off, the pain sets in. Your muscles are throbbing, your joints are stiff, and you want to curl up in a ball and forget this climb ever happened.
Luckily, you can do a few things to ease the pain and make the recovery process a little bit easier. Here are some tips on how to ease body pain after a big climb.
Get moving
It might seem counterintuitive, but one of the best things you can do for your sore muscles is to keep them active. Go for a light walk or jog, do some gentle stretching, or even take a warm bath. Avoid any intense workouts or tough climbs, but light movements can help to loosen up your muscles and speed up the recovery process. The heat will help loosen up your muscles, and the movement will keep your blood flowing, which will help reduce swelling and speed up the healing process.
Apply ice
Applying ice can be a great relief if you’re dealing with inflammation or sharp pains. Wrap ice in a towel and apply it to the affected area for 15-20 minutes. Cold temperatures help reduce swelling by constricting the blood vessels in the area and can also provide a numbing sensation. However, limit your ice application to 15-20 minutes at a time – any longer could cause tissue damage. Do this several times throughout the day as needed.
See a chiropractor
A chiropractor is one of the best professionals to visit after a big climb. They can help diagnose any issues, provide adjustments to reduce joint pain and stiffness, and offer advice on preventing future injuries. Chiropractors are trained to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal disorders, so they can help you find the best course of action for your specific needs.
Take painkillers
Over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen can help eliminate moderate pain and inflammation. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for the best option, and follow the dosage instructions. Just be sure not to overdo it—too much ibuprofen can lead to gastrointestinal issues like ulcers.
Rest up
It’s essential to give your body time to recover after a strenuous activity like mountaineering. Get plenty of rest to give your muscles time to heal and repair. Your body needs the energy to recover, so make sure you’re eating a balanced diet full of nutritious foods. Also, ensure you get enough sleep and take breaks during the day to put your feet up and relax as much as possible. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol, as it can interfere with recovery.
Avoid Extreme Body Pain When Hiking
If you’re not prepared, it can also be a quick way to develop some severe body pain. To avoid extreme discomfort (or worse), follow these simple tips for hiking pain prevention.
Wear the Right Shoes
One of the most common causes of hiking pain is wearing the wrong shoes. This can lead to blisters and calluses, shin splints, and cramps. So, before heading out on the trail, ensure you’re wearing shoes that fit well and provide adequate support. And don’t forget to break in new shoes before hitting the trail; there’s nothing worse than developing a blister halfway through your hike!
Pack Light
Another common cause of hiking pain is packing too much stuff. If your backpack is too heavy or unevenly distributed, it can cause all sorts of problems, from neck and shoulder pain to lower back pain. So, when packing for your hike, only bring the essentials and distribute the weight evenly. You’ll thank yourself later!
Take Breaks Often
Even if you’re in great shape, hiking can tax your body. So, it’s essential to take breaks often to avoid developing any pain or discomfort. Aim for a break every 30 minutes or so, and use that time to stretch your muscles and give your body a chance to recover.
The bottom line
While hiking can cause body pain, that should not stop you from hitting the trails! With a little preparation and smart decision-making, you can ensure that your next hike is both enjoyable and pain-free. So lace up those shoes, grab your pack, and enjoy the great outdoors! Good luck!
