How to manage discomfort from rapid change in daily activity?

amwst
amwst Posts: 7 Member
edited November 2024 in Fitness and Exercise
Two months ago I moved from a ground-level apartment in the middle of nowhere to a two-level, second and third floor apartment in the middle of the city. Where I used to just let the dog out into the yard, now I must walk him. I also now walk to work, the grocery store... where ever!

Basically, I have had no choice but to increase my activity level and no option to take “rest days”. I am walking at least two miles a day, sometimes more. My leg muscles and joints are sore most of the time, but they are responding well to acupuncture, epsom salt baths, stretching, occasional naproxen. I’m avoiding as much inflammatory food as possible. Is there anything else I could or should be doing? I imagine I will eventually build up enough strength in my legs that this level of activity will feel “normal” and less like bootcamp.

Replies

  • TavistockToad
    TavistockToad Posts: 35,719 Member
    Comfy walking shoes might help
  • nowine4me
    nowine4me Posts: 3,985 Member
    Sounds like a fun spot. Second on good shoes and try foam rolling for self massage. Plus, it’s a Nice quiet activity for city living.
  • Lolinloggen
    Lolinloggen Posts: 466 Member
    I understand where you are coming from in the discomfort. Been there done that and it is really uncomfortable when it is in the hip.
    First the positive side: It will pass as you get used to it, but it will take some time as the option of a rest day seems difficult with a loved dog that needs to be walked.
    What helps me is the massages as mentioned by others (even with worth considering to get a sports massage) a hot bath, a good stretch/yoga etc.
    You could investigate if you can so something else besides walking. Maybe go for a gentle swim or a bike ride or some yoga. It would give you muscles a different stress and may alleviate some of the tightness that you are experiencing. Variation in movement I have found to be the best way to make progress in my main exercise regime
  • AnnPT77
    AnnPT77 Posts: 35,151 Member
    I ice my joints after exercise that I fear may cause problems. I have a couple of those gel-filled flexible cold packs with a velcro strap, and keep them in the freezer all the time. I put a towel beween them & my skin so it's more comfortable. Over the counter linaments can help, and they have some now that don't have the aggressive scent. There are ones with a topical NSAID plus menthol or some other topical anaesthetic, or just anaesthetic; either one can help, but you don't want to be routinely using the topical NSAIDs if you're routinely taking oral ones already.
  • amwst
    amwst Posts: 7 Member
    Thanks friends, I will try these suggestions!
This discussion has been closed.

Categories