Analogous Immersion: Athletic Injury Prevention (Using the 5 “E” Framework)
For my analogous immersion, I referred to my summer internship as a Physical Therapy Aide as I considered the process of taking preventative action against injury.
ENTICE
- When an athlete sees friends get injured or feels pain themselves, it becomes wise to take preventative action before a real injury occurs.
- Preventative exercise also improves strength in healthy joints.
ENTER
- Athletes may begin preventative exercise on their own or with a Physical Therapist.
- This type of training can be prompted by an injury, pain, or personal preference.
ENGAGE
- Athletes will receive heat therapy, ice therapy, stimulation therapy, and massage therapy.
- Athletes will also perform range-of-motion exercises as well as active exercises to strengthen joins and connective tissue.
- They will also perform different stretching exercises.
- It is critical that athletes develop routines and perform exercises often and with consistency in order to make this effective.
EXIT
- Ideally, people do not stop performing these maintenance techniques as it will help for athletic activities as well as longevity.
EXTEND
- After an injury is healed or proper joint stability is achieved, athletes may return to past exercise habits and continue to practice proper technique and body awareness.
Takeaways
- Preventative exercise and physical therapy are similar to good retirement practices.
- Both require discipline, routines, and consistency.
- Both improve longevity.