Pain after exercise is something anyone who works out regularly knows well. After a workout, you may feel great, but the next day, sore muscles can make movement difficult. This discomfort, known as delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), typically occurs 1 to 2 days after exercise (MacIntyre et al., 1995).
While it’s a normal part of building strength and endurance, there are effective ways to manage muscle pain and speed up recovery. Discover the reasons behind post-exercise soreness, ways to relieve it, and how fisiocrem Solugel can support your recovery.
Muscle soreness after exercise occurs when muscles experience micro-tears because of intense physical activity (Cheung et al., 2003). This is especially common when trying new exercises or increasing workout intensity. The body’s inflammatory response to these tears leads to swelling and inflammation, which contributes to pain and stiffness. Delayed onset soreness is most common after eccentric exercises, like downhill running or lowering weights (Gulick, et al., 1996).
Muscle soreness is a sign that your body is adapting and growing. Severe discomfort may indicate a more serious soft tissue injury requiring additional care.
Here are some evidence-based strategies to manage soreness and support recovery:
Hydration plays a crucial role in flushing out toxins and reducing muscle cramping. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise to support overall muscle function (Chodkowski, 2024).
Gentle movements like walking, cycling, or stretching help increase blood flow to sore areas, promoting faster recovery. Active recovery can also reduce stiffness associated with DOMS.
Applying ice to sore muscles in the first 24 hours can help reduce inflammation. Afterwards, using a heat pack may relieve stiffness and promote relaxation (Wang et al., 2021).
Using a foam roller or massaging sore muscles improves circulation, reduces tension, and aids in recovery (Wiewelhove, et al., 2019).
Products like fisiocrem Solugel are ideal for managing post-exercise muscle pain. Fisiocrem Solugel is a topical anti-inflammatory gel containing naturally derived active ingredients and menthol. Topical gels like fisiocrem Solugel help to relieve soreness and reduce swelling associated with soft tissue injuries. Simply apply the gel to the affected area for effective muscle pain relief (Ramon et al., 2022).
Although it’s impossible to avoid all muscle soreness, incorporating these strategies can help minimise discomfort:
When muscle pain strikes, quick action can help reduce discomfort and get you back to your routine faster. Stretching, using foam rollers, or applying a topical gel designed for muscle pain relief are great immediate remedies. Keeping inflammation in check is key to reducing sore muscles after a workout.
If muscle pain lasts more than a week, or if there is severe swelling or limited movement, consult a healthcare professional. Persistent pain may indicate a more serious injury, such as a strain or sprain, that requires specialised treatment.
Muscle soreness is a natural part of physical fitness, but it doesn’t have to slow you down. Incorporating recovery strategies like hydration, active recovery, and topical pain relief gels like fisiocrem Solugel can keep you moving.
If you have mild discomfort or a soft tissue injury, taking steps to manage inflammation will help you to keep moving.
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Introducing fisiocrem sponsored athlete Nikki Sorrell a hybrid athlete looking to take on her first Hyrox event this month!
Nikki really enjoys the hybrid racing events that are currently gaining popularity. She’s tried DEKA, which she found to be awesome, and she’s signed up for her first Hyrox in mid-December.
2024 was a hectic year for work-related travel, which meant she couldn’t focus as much on her training and events. However, she did manage to sign up last minute for the UTA100, an experience that was nothing short of incredible. The event took her through the stunning Blue Mountains, where she achieved her goal of finishing the 100km in under 24 hours.
Nikki is excited for 2025 and eager to dive back into training. Her first step is locking in events, so she has specific targets to work toward, and she plans to structure her training around them.
As Nikki looks ahead to events in 2025, she’s been building an extensive bucket list, with the Larapinta Trail high on her list of things to do.
She draws inspiration from many people and finds motivation in the small things. Those daily 1%-ers over time, lead to big gains. Nikki is also incredibly grateful for the strong support network she has, including her husband, family, gym community, friends, and training buddies, as well as the wider community of the sports she participates in.
For Nikki, every training session or event holds a special memory, especially those spent out in nature. It’s something that truly grounds her, reminding her that she gets to do this. She is always thankful for the journey she’s on and the experiences she’s able to have.
NIKKI’S TOP RECOVERY TIPS
“Utilise strategies to check in with your body to reduce the risk of injury and optimise health and performance. This is a daily non-negotiable for me, and can be as simple as some stretching upon waking/getting up, and I will always prior to training/events, do things like foam rolling, dynamic stretching and band work to prepare for upcoming physical activities.”
NIKKI SORRELL
As January rolls in, so do our fitness goals and New Year’s resolutions. Preparing for success starts before your workout. Whether you are stepping into the gym for the first time, returning after a break, or starting a new fitness plan.
Starting strong can help you avoid problems like injury and muscle pain. This keeps you motivated to reach your goals all year.
Here is a comprehensive guide to preparing effectively for a workout and maintaining optimal performance.
A workout without a plan can lead to wasted time or overexertion. Decide what you want to achieve whether it’s improving cardio fitness, building strength, or trying something new like yoga. Having a clear goal will help you structure your session and focus on what matters.
Proper hydration is essential for muscle function and endurance. Aim to drink water throughout the day, not just right before you workout. If you’re exercising for an extended period or in the heat, consider an electrolyte drink to replenish lost minerals.
Your pre-workout nutrition plays a crucial role in optimising your performance. Consuming a light snack containing carbohydrates and protein can provide the necessary energy to support your workout session. Good options include a banana with peanut butter or a slice of whole-grain toast. Avoid heavy or greasy meals that may weigh you down.
While static stretches are better suited for after a workout, dynamic stretches are ideal for pre-exercise. These involve movements, such as lunges with a twist or shoulder rolls, and help prime your muscles for action.
To learn about the benefits of different types of stretching, read our guide. It covers static and dynamic stretching. You can find helpful tips on how to add them to your routine.
Selecting appropriate workout attire is essential for ensuring comfort and performance during exercise. Choose breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics, and make sure your shoes provide adequate support for your activity. Don’t forget to check any fitness equipment you’ll be using for safety and functionality.
Jumping into a new workout plan with full energy too soon can lead to injury. Start at a pace that feels manageable and gradually increase the intensity over time. Listen to your body —if you experience discomfort or soreness, allow yourself time to rest and recover.
Although it occurs after your workout rather than before, incorporating a cool-down routine is vital. Cooling down helps gradually lower your heart rate and reduce muscle stiffness. Devote a few minutes to light walking or stretching to support recovery and enhance flexibility.
Even with careful preparation, muscle aches and soreness can still happen. This is especially true when starting a new fitness routine or increasing activity. This is where fisiocrem Solugel can help provide muscle pain relief.
Specifically formulated with naturally derived active ingredients and menthol, fisiocrem Solugel helps to alleviate symptoms associated with muscle strains, sprains, and soft tissue injuries.
Applying fisiocrem Solugel after your workout can help relieve muscle aches and pains so you can keep moving. fisiocrem Solugel helps you stay focused on your fitness goals.
Shop fisiocrem Solugel – Gel for sore muscles.
By following these essential steps before your workout, you’ll build a strong foundation for all your workouts. Fisiocrem actively supports your journey toward an active and healthy lifestyle.
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We share helpful tips, fun challenges, and motivational content to keep you active and focused on your goals all year round. Let’s work together to make this your most successful and active year yet—with fisiocrem by your side!
Spend about 5-10 minutes warming up. Focus on dynamic movements that get your blood flowing and prepare your muscles for exercise, such as leg swings, arm circles, or light cardio.
A small, balanced snack that includes carbohydrates and protein is ideal.
No, it’s important to start slow and listen to your body. Begin at a manageable pace, and gradually increase the intensity over time to avoid injury.
Muscle soreness is common, especially if you’re new to exercise. Using a product like fisiocrem Solugel can help relieve pain and discomfort. Simply apply the gel to sore muscles after your workout to speed up recovery.
Introducing fisiocrem sponsored athletes Riley and Ryan, a competitive brother duo who excel in dominating their age group in triathlon events.
Riley and Ryan are currently competing in triathlon events with a specific focus on long-course races. Their competitions range from the Standard distance (1.5km swim, 40km bike, 10km run) to the full Ironman distance (3.9km swim, 180km bike, 42.2km run) and everything in between.
Riley and Ryan’s favourite running spots are always by the water. Living on the Gold Coast, they have beaches right at their doorstep. They enjoy running the paths and trails at Main Beach, The Spit, and through Macintosh Island and Surfers Paradise. With wide open paths and breathtaking sunrises, no two runs are ever the same.
Ryan says, “Have confidence and belief in yourself and set goals to keep yourself accountable.”
Riley and Ryan Billingham’s greatest achievements in their sporting journey include completing their first Ironman at Port Macquarie and securing podium finishes at the 2024 World Multisport Championships. They placed 1st and 2nd in the standard distance duathlon and 2nd and 3rd in the long-course triathlon.
Riley and Ryan’s most memorable running experience was completing their first 32km session while training for Ironman Australia. This run included 6 x 3km intervals at race pace with minimal rest. It was a significant milestone for them, as it marked the furthest distance they had ever run and provided a crucial confidence boost, reassuring them that their training program was on track.
Riley and Ryan’s biggest supporters are, “Mum and Dad, who have spent countless hours travelling around Australia following us as juniors, and even more so now with events scattered across the country, along with the supportive network of the athletes at Team T-Rex Triathlon Club.”
For Riley and Ryan, getting into the right physical and mental zone is essential for race preparation. The most critical parts of their training are the key sessions, where they push themselves to train at race pace. These sessions provide valuable insights and shape their race-day approach. They emphasise consistency in training, ensuring they cover the full race distance while maintaining confidence and belief in their abilities. Ryan says, “You have to motivate each other and pick each other up when the going gets tough.”
Ryan says, “You have to motivate each other and pick each other up when the going gets tough.”
RILEY AND RYAN’S TOP RECOVERY TIPS
“Listen to your body pre-session and post-session. It will tell you exactly what you need to know. You’re better off having an easier day instead of pushing through and risking injury.”
Riley and Ryan Billingham
When it comes to injuries, understanding the distinction between a sprain vs strain is crucial for proper treatment and recovery. Sprains and strains are terms often used interchangeably, but they refer to different conditions that require specific care. Knowing what sets them apart can help prevent further damage and ensure a smoother recovery process.
Ankle sprains are among the most frequent types of musculoskeletal injuries (Rogier et al. 2008). Sprains occur when the ligaments – tissues that connect bones and stabilize joints – are overstretched or torn (Fong, et al. 2009)(Canares & Lockhart, 2013). Sprains commonly occur in areas such as the ankle, wrist, or knee.
For example, an ankle sprain can occur when the foot twists awkwardly, overstretching the ligaments around the joint. These injuries can range from mild (a slight overstretching) to severe (a complete tear).
While both involve overstretching, a strain affects muscles or tendons—the tissues that attach muscles to bones. Strains often happen in the lower back and hamstring. Strains usually occur because of overuse or sudden force.
Muscle strains are common injuries and usually occur during strenuous activity. Muscle strain symptoms include acute pain and swelling. Physical therapy can also be implemented into your recovery routine to restore flexibility and strength. Avoiding excessive fatigue and performing adequate warm-ups before exercise can help prevent muscle strain injury (Noonan & Garrett, 1999).
Think of a muscle pull during a workout or a strained gluteal muscle from lifting something heavy. Understanding the difference between a muscle strain vs. a sprain is essential for providing proper first aid.
Immediate first aid can make a significant difference in recovery from a sprain or strain (Borra et al, n.d). The R.I.C.E. method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) is widely recommended:
Additionally, using a topical pain relief gel like fisiocrem Solugel can support the recovery process. fisiocrem Solugel is a topical anti-inflammatory cream that helps relieve symptoms of muscle sprains and strains. fisiocrem Solugel contains naturally derived active ingredients & menthol.
Using fisiocrem Solugel in your recovery routine can help speed up your recovery. It is also useful for treating acute injuries. This can help you get back to your activities more quickly.
fisiocrem Solugel is also ideal for:
Swelling is a common symptom for both sprains and strains, as it indicates tissue damage and inflammation. For sprained ankle treatments, using cold packs can help control swelling in the first 48 hours. Combining this with fisiocrem Solugel can further support pain relief and reduce inflammation, making the recovery process smoother.
Knowing how to distinguish between a sprain and strain, and how to treat them, can be a game-changer in your recovery. Whether you’re dealing with a sprained ankle or a hamstring sprain, applying the right first aid measures, using fisiocrem Solugel, and gradually reintroducing movement can help you get back on track safely. If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for further guidance.
Cold is the preferred choice in the first 48 hours following a sprain to reduce swelling. You can introduce heat later to soothe and relax tight muscles.
Cold packs reduce blood flow to the injured area, which helps decrease swelling and numbs the area to reduce pain. This makes them an effective initial treatment for a sprained wrist or ankle.
Yes, heat should be avoided initially, as it can increase swelling. After 48 hours, heat can be beneficial in loosening up tight muscles during recovery.
In conjunction with the R.I.C.E. method. fisiocrem Solugel can help soothe sore muscles and reduce swelling, making it a helpful addition to your recovery plan. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help manage pain.
Resting the muscle is crucial, followed by gradually re-introducing exercises to regain mobility. For a lower back strain, for example, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can aid recovery while preventing further injury.
Ice helps reduce swelling and numbs the sore area. This makes it a good remedy for sore muscles after exercise or injury.
Rest, applying cold packs, and avoiding activities that put a strain on the back are key. Using fisiocrem Solugel can help reduce muscle discomfort, making it easier to transition back to movement. After the initial pain and swelling subside, gentle stretching and exercises can help restore mobility.
Introducing fisiocrem sponsored athlete Meg, a dedicated fitness enthusiast with a strong passion for running and gym workouts.
Meg is currently hooked on both running and hitting the gym. These two activities complement each other perfectly, keeping her energised and grounded.
Meg says, “Every run feels like an adventure, but the Brisbane Half Marathon truly stands out.” As she crossed the finish line, her watch revealed she had achieved a 5-minute personal best time! She considers that a solid win!
Meg says her biggest supporter is, “My mum, who’s at every race with me, triple-checking that I have everything I need and cheering me on.”
For Meg, race day preparation is both a mental and physical challenge. The night before, she switches off from social media to focus all her energy on the event. She ensures her meal includes a balance of protein, carbs, and fats, including her usual 8 to 12 hours of sleep. Physically, she’s refined her approach over time to avoid getting sick before the race. It’s a delicate balance to get right.
Meg is drawn to trails through rainforests and near waterfalls. Running in her hometown of Cairns holds a special place in her heart. The paved and unpaved paths that she explores in her backyard, fill her with gratitude. Meg says, “There’s a calming energy in nature that you can’t find anywhere else.”
MEG’S TOP RECOVERY TIPS
Meg’s top recovery tips are, “Fuel your body and rest as much as you can to avoid burnout. Remember, where your energy and focus go, results follow.”
Meg Taylor
Neck pain is a common issue. It can be because of poor posture at work, sleeping in an awkward position, or everyday strain.
It can range from mild discomfort to persistent aches that interfere with daily life. Learning how to relieve neck pain can make a significant improvement in how you feel throughout the day. This article will explore effective remedies. Including tips on posture, stretching, and the use of topical solutions like fisiocrem Solugel and fisiocrem Joint Ease.
Neck pain can come from many causes. These include bad posture, sleeping in an awkward position, or sudden movements that strain the neck muscles.
Common symptoms include stiffness, soreness, and difficulty turning the head. Over time, untreated neck pain can lead to headaches, shoulder discomfort, or even back pain. Recognising the root causes of your pain can help you choose the right remedy.
If you’re wondering how to relieve neck pain, there are several simple strategies you can try. Stretching, taking breaks, and adjusting your posture can all provide relief.
Gentle neck exercises can help relax tight muscles and boost blood flow. Try slowly turning your head from side to side. You can also gently roll your shoulders.
Waking up with neck pain is frustrating, and it’s often caused by sleeping in a position that doesn’t support the neck. If you’ve slept in an awkward position, start by gently stretching your neck. Tilt your head from side to side and slowly rotate your neck to release tension. Applying a warm compress can also help relax stiff muscles.
Choosing the right pillow is crucial for neck pain relief. A good pillow supports the natural curve of your neck, preventing strain while you sleep. Experts often recommend memory foam pillows, and cervical pillows for people with neck pain.
These pillows keep your neck aligned with your spine, reducing the chances of waking up sore.
If you’re dealing with frequent pain from sleeping, it may be time to adjust your sleeping position. Sleeping on your back with a supportive pillow is usually the best way to avoid pain, as it keeps your spine and neck aligned. If you prefer sleeping on your side, use a pillow that keeps your head level with your shoulders to prevent strain.
Topical gels and creams can be an effective way to target pain directly. Products like fisiocrem Solugel and fisiocrem Joint Ease offer effective relief by reducing inflammation and relieving pain. These products are easy to apply, making them a convenient option for managing pain throughout the day.
fisiocrem Solugel is a topical pain relief gel containing menthol and naturally derived active ingredients. fisiocrem Solugel relieves muscle pain and helps in the management of muscle sprains and strains. It contains active ingredients like Arnica and Hypericum, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Using this gel on your neck can help ease muscle aches and soreness.
fisiocrem Joint Ease is an ideal topical solution for mild neck stiffness and mild joint pain. This topical gel contains ingredients like Boswellia Serrata and Nigella Sativa, which work together to relieve soreness and support joint mobility. By applying fisiocrem Joint Ease to your neck, can ease mild stiffness and discomfort throughout the day.
Stretching is an effective way to alleviate neck pain. Here are a few simple stretches you can do at your desk or at home:
Self-massage can be an effective way to release tension in the neck. Using your fingers, gently massage the base of your skull and the sides of your neck in a circular motion. Applying fisiocrem Solugel or fisiocrem Joint Ease during the massage will help relieve pain and stiffness.
To prevent ongoing neck pain, consider strengthening your neck and shoulder muscles through regular exercise. Activities like yoga or swimming can improve flexibility and posture, reducing the likelihood of developing neck pain. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular movement is key to long-term relief.
You can treat most cases of neck pain with home remedies. However, if the pain continues or gets worse, it is important to see a health professional. If you feel pain with numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms, it may be a sign of a serious problem. You should seek professional help.
Neck pain can be a daily struggle. Using simple remedies can help provide relief. Stretching, adjusting your workplace ergonomics, and using topical treatments are effective. Try fisiocrem Solugel and fisiocrem Joint Ease for effective relief.
The best way to relieve neck pain is through a combination of stretches, ergonomic adjustments, and topical treatments.
You can avoid neck pain by keeping good posture. Adjust your monitor so it is at eye level. Take regular breaks to stretch your neck.
Gentle neck tilts, rotations, and shoulder rolls are great exercises to relieve tension and improve neck flexibility.
Apply fisiocrem two to three times a day, or as needed, for effective relief from neck pain and stiffness.
Select a pillow that supports your neck. It should not be too high or too flat.
Introducing fisiocrem sponsored athlete Carmen, a dedicated mum pushing hard towards her goals and participating in multiple sporting activities.
Carmen’s favourite activities are running and functional training at her local F45. She has found a great balance in her fitness journey and is shifting her focus from triathlons to Hyrox. She says, “I’ve learned that missing training sessions is a normal part of life with young kids.”
Carmen’s most treasured run was the Two Oceans Half Marathon in Cape Town, South Africa. She was mesmerised by the natural scenery, especially as she watched the sunrise over the Table Mountains. However, Sydney holds a special place in her heart, as it is where she completed her very first marathon.
Carmen’s biggest fitness achievement is completing her first marathon in 2023, the Sydney Marathon (42.2 km). It was an incredible experience, especially considering the challenges she faced along the way. During her training, she had to balance her preparation with the demands of raising three kids under five and supporting her husband, who had just started a new company. They also bought a new house and moved mid-training block. Carmen focused significantly on mentally preparing for the infamous 35 km wall that everyone warned her about, and she was proud that her grit and mental strength helped her get through the marathon without feeling like she hit that wall. On race day, she encountered a setback, spending 40 minutes hobbling to a medical tent to strap her ankle, yet she still finished under her goal time, with an official time of 5:42:07, despite a heatwave. Additionally, Carmen raised over $1,000 for ‘At The Ark Inc’ her charity of choice, making the journey even more meaningful. The support from Daniel and their kids (Leo, Isla, and Cruz), her coach Zac, and her friend Kylie, who ran alongside her, played a crucial role in her success. It was a day filled with challenges, but crossing the finish line felt like the culmination of her hard work and dedication.
Carmen says her biggest supporters are, “My husband Daniel, my children and my coach Zac. They all inspire me and keep fueling my passion for running. Along with my friend Kylie who cheers me on each race.”
Preparing for a race involves both mental and physical strategies for Carmen. Physically, she follows a well-structured training plan tailored by her coach, which helps her build the necessary endurance and strength. Mentally, she spends a lot of time visualising the race and focusing on overcoming any negative self-talk that may arise, silencing that inner critic.
Carmen says, “I remind myself of the hard work I’ve put in and the support I have from my family and friends.”
CARMEN’S TOP RECOVERY TIPS
Carmen’s top recovery tips are, “Listen to your body! Ensure you have high-protein meals, enough sleep and time to relax during a busy race weekend.”
Carmen Exler
Mild arthritis affects millions of people around the world. It causes joint pain, stiffness, and discomfort. These symptoms can make daily activities difficult.
With National Arthritis Week in October, it’s the perfect time to discuss ways to manage and relieve mild arthritis symptoms. In this article, we will look at ways to reduce mild arthritis pain. We will focus on lifestyle changes and topical treatments, such as fisiocrem Joint Ease.
Mild arthritis is often an early stage of joint-related discomfort where the symptoms are present but not severe. It can affect people of any age, though it’s more common as we get older.
The most common type of mild arthritis is mild osteoarthritis. This condition affects the joints and causes cartilage to break down. As a result, it leads to pain and inflammation.
Symptoms of mild arthritis include joint pain, tenderness, and stiffness. You may also notice a decrease in your range of motion. These symptoms can get worse over time if you do not treat them.
Managing mild arthritis early can prevent the condition from worsening. Early intervention helps maintain joint function and mobility while minimising pain and inflammation. Without proper care, mild arthritis can progress to more severe forms, significantly impacting your quality of life. By addressing it early, you can lead an active and fulfilling life, even with mild arthritis.
For mild arthritis relief, topical treatments like creams and gels are popular. They can provide effective pain relief.
fisiocrem Joint Ease is a topical anti-inflammatory cream formulated to address mild arthritis pain. This topical mild arthritis gel helps reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and promote healthy joint function.
fisiocrem Joint Ease combines menthol & naturally derived active ingredients with scientific innovation to provide effective relief from mild arthritis symptoms. The gel contains key ingredients like Arnica montana, Boswellia serrata, Nigella Sativa, Calendula, Menthol, Melaleuca, and Hypericum, which work together to reduce inflammation, soothe soreness, and support joint flexibility. Its effective formula allows for easy application without a greasy residue, making it a convenient option for daily use.
In addition to pain relief, fisiocrem Joint Ease helps improve joint mobility and flexibility. This is important for staying active. Using fisiocrem Joint Ease regularly can help ease mild joint stiffness and soreness. This allows you to move more freely during the day.
To get the most out of fisiocrem Joint Ease, it’s essential to apply the product correctly. Use a small amount of the gel on the affected area and gently massage it into the skin until fully absorbed. Since the product provides temporary relief, consistency is key to managing ongoing mild arthritis symptoms.
In addition to topical remedies, lifestyle changes can play a significant role in managing mild arthritis symptoms. Staying active is crucial for keeping joints flexible and reducing stiffness. Low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, and walking are ideal for individuals with mild arthritis.
Also, eating a healthy diet with anti-inflammatory foods can help reduce joint inflammation. Foods such as leafy greens, fatty fish, and nuts are ideal sources of anti-inflammatories.
Exercise is a critical component of any management plan. Low-impact activities like yoga, swimming, and tai chi can help strengthen the muscles around your joints. These exercises improve mobility without putting too much strain on the affected areas. Regular physical activity keeps joints flexible and reduces stiffness, making it easier to go about your day.
A balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can complement the use of fisiocrem Joint Ease and other treatments. Foods like salmon, olive oil, berries, and leafy greens help reduce inflammation. Incorporating more whole foods and fewer processed items can significantly impact your overall joint health.
National Arthritis Week takes place in October. October is a time to raise awareness about mild arthritis and its impact on daily life. It provides a platform for sharing resources, support networks, and the latest research on managing the condition.
By joining events this week, you can meet others with similar experiences. You can also discover new ways to manage your mild arthritis symptoms. Learn more about National Arthritis Week.
Managing mild arthritis doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Using topical treatments like fisiocrem Joint Ease, making lifestyle changes, and staying active can help reduce pain. These steps can also improve your quality of life. National Arthritis Week is a great time to take action, educate yourself, and find the support you need.
Introducing fisiocrem sponsored athlete Joel, an active runner and dedicated family man based on the Gold Coast.
In 2017, while living in Tasmania, Joel experienced atrial fibrillation and briefly flatlined in the hospital. This resulted in him being on beta blockers and aspirin for 12 to 18 months, which led to a significant decline in his physical activity. He struggled to even mow the lawn without feeling exhausted, contributing to considerable weight gain. In 2019, his family relocated to the Gold Coast, where doctors cleared him to resume an active lifestyle. Inspired by the fitness culture, Joel embarked on his running journey, well after believing he would never be active again.
Joel likes to inject some humour into his race day routine to ease his nerves. In addition to that, he ensures he has trained sufficiently to meet his goals and has a solid race day plan in place. He approaches goal setting with a “good, better, best” framework, allowing for unexpected circumstances that may arise during a race. “On race day I make sure I have planned for details like finding parking, doing my warm-up, and knowing how to reach my start zone. All of which help reduce my anxiety.”
Joel grew up running in Launceston, Tasmania, a city rich with stunning landscapes ideal for jogging. “I lived near an area that connected several picturesque spots, creating fantastic running loops.” Some of these spots included: Cataract Gorge, Duck Reach Power Station, and Trevallyn Dam. These locations provided a variety of trails, ranging from paved paths to rugged terrain, featuring steep hills and numerous stairs. After heavy rain or during water releases for power generation, the sight of the powerful white water rushing over the dam walls was truly breathtaking. “However, coastal sunrise runs on the Gold Coast were equally spectacular.”
Joel says, “My wife and children. They are my greatest motivators and supporters, inspiring me to set an example of a healthy and active lifestyle. Also for accepting the need for more running shoes even though I just bought a pair.”
His wife puts up with the alarm going off every 10 minutes until he finally wakes up for his morning runs. She also drives the kids around during his races. Joel’s son, who is becoming quite fast, believes he will soon outpace his dad, which drives Joel to train hard to maintain his title as the fastest in the household for as long as he can.
The most memorable experiences in Joel’s life from running largely stem from the lifelong friendships he has formed through the sport rather than the running itself. “My best friend, who is also a runner, connected in high school in Tasmania where we frequently trained together.” They participated in national events, competing both alongside and against each other. Now, nearly 30 years later, their friendship, rooted in their shared passion for running, continues to thrive.
JOEL’S TOP RECOVERY TIPS
Joel’s top recovery tips are, “It’s crucial to respect the effort involved by allowing your body enough recovery time between activities. Also, a post-race massage is essential for aiding that recovery.”
Joel Ashdown
fisiocrem Australia is devoted to helping you manage your pain, and we have been since 2009. We develop high-quality topical pain relief products that stop pain from interfering with your regular activity.
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