BaseballDOJO MINDSET: HURT OR INJURED?

Are you hurt or injured?

Do you know the difference?

Here’s a simple rule of thumb: is the pain sharp or dull?

If the pain is dull or more spread out, it’s likely fatigue, soreness from recovering muscles, or a bruise. While this isn’t necessarily serious injury, it’s a sign that your body needs some TLC. Make sure you’re staying hydrated, eating well, and getting enough rest. You can and should play through this discomfort, but only if you’re taking care of yourself. You’re hurt, but you can keep going.

If you ever feel a sharp pain, stop immediately and get medical attention. Sharp pain—like being stabbed by a needle or a knife—is an indication of acute injury, like a pulled muscle, damaged ligament or tendon, or a broken bone. If you keep practicing or playing after you feel it, you can make the injury worse. You’re injured. This isn’t the time to be a tough guy and push through it.

Most importantly, if you’re ever in a hard collision with another player, the wall, or if you get hit in the head with a pitch or foul ball, stop and take notice of how your head feels. If you feel foggy, drowsy, confused, or a headache comes on, stop playing immediately and see a doctor. Concussions are not something you can “just shake off.” It’s a serious injury that requires immediate attention. DO NOT CONTINUE TO PLAY OR PRACTICE!!! Take care of your brain. You’ll need it for the rest of your life.

Some people are tougher than others, and that’s okay, but only up to a point. The thing that matters most is not this practice or this game: it’s you.

So pay attention to what your body is telling you.