Overcoming Sports Injuries for a Retired But Loyal Athlete
"I used to play football but due to injury, I haven't been able to continue playing. In return, this makes me feel empty. And with no purpose. What should I do."
Similar to my past experience and that of Alex Smith, I too faced a significant injury in high school football that made me reconsider my passion. While the idea of returning might have been tempting, I chose not to, and instead focused on my recovery and finding a new outlet for my love for the sport.
The Importance of Proper Rest Post-Injury
Getting the appropriate care post-injury is crucial. If you experience any pain or discomfort, it's always better to see a doctor and ensure you get proper rest until the injury heals. Ignoring these signals and forcing yourself to continue can often lead to more severe and prolonged issues.
A Personal Experience
One year prior, I faced a similar scenario. I initially felt off but never prioritized resting. This allowed a minor tear in my ligament to worsen into a full tear. A small muscle damage that could have been healed with a week's rest turned into a more severe condition, requiring 1.5 months for full recovery, with an additional week of physiotherapy to regain walking ability.
Even though I have since recovered, the lingering effect of not resting properly has impacted my left leg. My speed significantly decreased, and my overall game has suffered. If I had heeded the warning signs and rested for even a few days, I might still be at the peak of my ability as a fullback.
The Accidental Back-Volley Incident
My next anecdote stems from a match I played as a goalkeeper. I was keen on stopping a ball that seemed to be going past me. In that moment of passion, I attempted a back-volley kick to thwart the goal. However, executing this move while being airborne put undue strain on my left wrist, leading to a fracture.
Despite the injury, I continued to feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. I wasn't casting blame or cursing the sport for my broken wrist; instead, I was filled with a renewed enthusiasm because I had managed to save the goal. The love and passion for football were deeply ingrained in me.
Dealing with a Hand Fracture
For the following month, I faced physical limitations with a plaster on my left hand. Unable to fully participate in football, I compensated by juggling the ball on my uninjured side. This was distressing as I felt excluded from my usual routines. After 15 days, impatient and eager to return to the field, I removed the plaster, despite being advised to wait. My guild was football, and so I focused on continuing to play regardless of my injuries.
Conclusion:
Ultimately, if you have a deep love for something, it's essential to remain resilient and not let injuries deter you from your passion. If you entertain the idea of being an athlete, whether you play football, basketball, or any other sport, take every precaution and remember to listen to your body. If you find that you have to quit due to an injury, it's important to reflect on what you can do to adapt and continue contributing to your sport.
Note: English is not my first language, so I hope the message is clear.
Postscript: I am not a goalkeeper, I accidentally played as one one day.