Gymnasts are highly skilled and require a lot from their bodies. Because of this, pain is something they have to deal with on a regular basis, especially in the hands. This is typically due to the early onset of osteoarthritis. Though this may be inevitable to some degree, there are things you can do prevent this condition or delay its onset, treat your pain and get on with your life.
Arthritis
The joints in your hands are susceptible to injury and the development of arthritis due to repetitive movements like typing or playing a musical instrument. However, gymnasts are also at risk, especially adolescent gymnasts who are still developing. Small injuries or fractures in the hands and wrists can develop into arthritis later.
Pain and Other Symptoms
Arthritis in the hands typically displays itself in the form of pain, especially when moving the fingers or bending the wrist. You may also develop pain after completing a practice session. Other symptoms can occur as well including swelling and stiffness at the joints and reduced mobility.
Proper Training
Proper training can go a long way to prevent pain in your hands and the development of osteoarthritis. This is especially vital for those who are not done growing yet. Supervision during training can help gymnasts learn proper technique from a young age to avoid injuring themselves. Gymnastics practice should be accompanied by stretching and strength training programs to ensure all surrounding muscles remain strong and flexible to support you during your routine.
Treatments
If you already have pain in your hands from performing gymnastics currently or from old injuries and arthritis, a standard over-the-counter pain reliever may be all that you need to get relief. Common choices are ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Physical therapy may also be in order, which can help you build strength in ligaments and muscles that surround your inflamed and painful joints, thus reducing the stress on them. Splints can also be used to provide additional support. In extreme cases where the shape of the bones have deformed, surgery is often the only recourse.
