At Archbishop Hoban High School, student-athletes fill the halls, and so do waves of crutches, braces, and casts. It’s a lesson learned the hard way: being an athlete often means facing injuries. For those of us who pour heart and soul into our sports, our field or court is more than just a game—it’s a passion, a safe place, a second home. When injuries force us to step away, it’s never simple. Speaking from five years of experience with back-to-back injuries, I’ve picked up a few lessons on the road to recovery.
Pain and the Power of Heat
The first hurdle of an injury is always physical pain. I’m not a doctor, but I’ve learned that heating pads are often overlooked. Sure, they’re known for soothing strains and sprains, but even broken bones can benefit. After breaking my back, ice helped numb the pain, but it left my muscles stiff, making it harder to move. Now, I rely on heat regularly; it keeps the pain at bay and my muscles loose. Ice might mask pain in the short term, but if you’re dealing with a long-term injury, consider investing in a quality heating pad.
Recovery Isn’t a Race
Recovery takes time and dedication, and for athletes who crave the game, waiting is the hardest part. Even when pain starts to fade, and it feels like we are ready to jump back in, patience is key. Ignoring this, I’ve learned, only leads to setbacks. Without taking the right steps, rushing back too soon means you’ll likely end up sidelined again. It’s not easy, but focusing on your long-term goals instead of immediate returns is crucial.
Rebuilding, Physically and Mentally
Recovery exercises can be humbling. Even simple moves from a physical therapist might feel like maxing out in the weight room. After hip surgery, I went from dancing without a second thought to struggling just to lift my leg. The frustration was real, and the thought of a full recovery seemed impossible at times. But I learned that trusting the process, no matter how slow, was vital. Listen to your doctors and push yourself as much as you can, you will heal.
Combating the Loneliness of Recovery
One day you’re spending every moment with teammates; the next, you’re sitting out practices and games. Between physical therapy, doctor’s appointments, and trainer sessions, it’s easy to feel isolated as the season moves on without you. As hard as it was, showing up to summer workouts after my surgery helped fight that loneliness. I may not have been able to lift weights, but just being there with my team kept my spirits up. My advice: include yourself as much as possible; your teammates can make all the difference.
Why the Fight is Worth It
Recovery is never easy. Whether you’re dealing with a sprain or a torn ACL, every athlete’s journey is unique and challenging. When I struggled, I reminded myself what I was fighting for. Fight for your teammates because they are rooting for you. Fight for your coaches because they have invested in your success and support you. Most importantly, fight for yourself. If you love your sport, you owe it to yourself to make a comeback.
