Repetitive Injuries: Why Rest Isn't Always the Best Medicine
Repetitive Injuries: Why Rest Isn't Always the Best Medicine
By Dr. Michael Siciak
Whether you're training for a race, enjoying the warmer weather by going for longer rides, and/or spending hours at a computer, repetitive (or overuse) injuries can creep up over time. These injuries develop when the demands placed on your muscles, tendons, joints, or ligaments exceed their ability to recover.
The good news? Most repetitive injuries respond very well with the right combination of self-management and treatment.
Self-Management: The PEACE & LOVE Approach
Current evidence suggests that successful recovery is about more than simply resting. The PEACE & LOVE approach encourages the body to heal while gradually restoring its capacity to handle everyday activities.
During the early stages of an injury:
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Protect the injured area by temporarily reducing activities that significantly increase pain—but avoid complete immobilization unless advised by a healthcare professional.
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Elevate and compress the area if swelling is present.
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Stay optimistic—most repetitive injuries improve with a gradual, well-managed recovery plan.
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Avoid relying on anti-inflammatory medications unless recommended by your healthcare provider, as inflammation is part of the body's natural healing process.
As symptoms begin to settle, the focus shifts toward rebuilding tissue capacity:
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Load gradually. Slowly reintroduce activities so your muscles, tendons, joints, and ligaments can adapt.
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Keep moving with pain-tolerable exercise, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, to maintain fitness.
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Prioritize quality sleep, adequate protein intake, and good overall nutrition to support tissue healing.
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Remember, healing isn't just about reducing pain—it's about preparing your body to tolerate the demands of sport, work, and everyday life again.
How Can Chiropractic Care Help?
While time and exercise are essential for recovery, chiropractic care can help guide the process and reduce setbacks.
Depending on the injury and its stage of healing, treatment may include:
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Identifying which tissue is actually involved (muscle, tendon, ligament, or joint)
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Hands-on therapy to improve joint mobility and reduce pain
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Soft tissue techniques to address muscle and tendon irritation
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Progressive rehabilitation exercises tailored to your goals
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Advice on training load, workplace ergonomics, and activity modification to help prevent the injury from returning
The goal isn't simply to relieve pain—it's to improve your body's ability to handle the activities you enjoy without symptoms coming back.
The Bottom Line
Repetitive injuries happen when the body's workload exceeds its recovery capacity. With smart load management, gradual strengthening, and an individualized treatment plan, most people can return to the activities they love stronger and more resilient than before.
If you've been dealing with an injury that just won't settle down, reach out to us at National Spine and Wellness (next door to TCR) using the following number 403-270-7252.
