The kettlebell is a cast iron ball with a handle used in performing strength training exercises. Kettlebells come in a variety of weights and can be used in performing virtually all exercises. When exercises are not performed correctly or when you over-exercise using a kettlebell, you place yourself at risk for forearm pain. If you experience persistent forearm pain while using a kettlebell, consult your physician.
Causes of Pain
Using a kettlebell improperly can lead to pain in your forearm. This pain often comes in the form of tendinitis or muscle contusions. Tendinitis --- in the forearm --- is the inflammation of your tendons. Tendinitis is an overuse injury that often results from repetitive strain. Lifting a kettlebell that is too heavy for your current fitness level can also lead to inflammation of your forearm tendons. A muscle contusion or bruise can also be caused by the use of a kettlebell. This can occur as the result of accidentally hitting your opposite forearm with the kettlebell. Muscle contusions can occur from one direct blow or occur over time as the result of numerous blows to your forearm.
Symptoms
If you have tendinitis in your forearm, you are likely to experience pain, swelling, burning or redness in the affected area. Your arm may be stiff and lose some of its range of motion. The pain of tendinitis often increases with physical activity and can be reduced with rest. If you sustain a muscle contusion, you will likely recall a time at which the kettlebell came into direct contact with your arm. A contusion can be painful and may cause a bruise on your forearm as the result of blood pooling beneath the surface the of skin.
Diagnosis and Treatment
A physical examination is often all that is necessary to determine if you have tendinitis or have sustained a muscle contusion. An X-ray may be performed in order to role out damage to the bones in your forearm. Your doctor may also order an MRI in order to determine the extent of your injury. Tendinitis and muscle contusions are most commonly treated with rest, ice, compression and elevation. Rarely is further action needed for tendinitis or a muscle contusion.
Prevention
There are steps you can take to prevent the occurrence of forearm pain while using a kettlebell. You should always warm up prior to exercising in order to ensure that your muscles, ligaments and joints are loose. This can help prevent injury. When using a kettlebell, you should start out slowly and slowly increase the intensity of your workouts as you feel more and more comfortable using a kettlebell. You should also ensure that you are performing proper technique of each and every exercise you are performing with the kettlebell. Avoid grasping onto the handle of the kettlebell too firmly. A loose grip can help to reduce the kettlebell's impact on your forearm.
Member Comments