Understanding Cellulitis
Cellulitis is a common bacterial skin infection that causes red, swollen, warm patches that can rapidly expand. It usually occurs on the lower legs but can also develop on the face, arms or other areas. The infection extends deep below the skin's surface into the dermis and subcutaneous fat tissue.
What Causes Cellulitis?
The leading causes of cellulitis are strains of Streptococcus and Staphylococcus bacteria entering the skin, often through cracks or wounds. It can occur after injuries, burns, surgeries, tattoos or in areas of poor circulation. The bacteria spread quickly once below the skin.
Recognizing Symptoms
Symptoms arise rapidly and may include:
- Red, swollen skin patch
- Warm, tight, hard skin
- Pain, tenderness
- Fever, swollen lymph nodes
Seeking prompt medical treatment is vital with cellulitis to prevent dangerous spread of infection.
Safely Working Out with Cellulitis
Exercise is generally not advised when suffering from an active bout of cellulitis, due to exacerbating symptoms and infection spread. But after receiving medical treatment and clearance, some light activity may aid healing.
Allow Infection to Heal First
With active cellulitis, aside from doctor-recommended walks, refrain from workout activities that increase blood flow to the infected area. This includes strength training, high intensity exercise, sweat-inducing activity or sports using the affected limb.
Compression Stockings
After the infection clears, wearing clinical grade 20–30 mmHg compression stockings helps prevent recurrence in legs. This also allows safer return to exercise by improving circulation.
Protection and Support
Lightly wrap or pad infected limbs that are healing but still tender. This protects from re-injury during activity. Supportive footwear, braces and joint sleeves add stability as well.
Prevention Tips and Post-Infection Exercise
Proper prevention and smart training choices after cellulitis recovery are key to avoiding recurrence when resuming exercise.
Boost Circulation
Low circulation increases cellulitis risk. Performing lower body strength training, stretches, foam rolling and massage boosts blood flow. Light cardio like walking, swimming and cycling also helps prevent recurrent infections.
Wound Care
Clean and bandage any skin wounds properly, especially on legs and feet, to keep bacteria out. This reduces openings for pathogens to enter and cause cellulitis.
Skins Compression
Investing in well-fitted compression workout leggings or tights improves circulation during training and general daily wear. This helps significantly lower recurrence risk.
Clean Gym Equipment
Disinfect gym machines, mats and athletic surfaces before use to prevent bacteria exposure leading to repeat infection. Shower immediately after training as well.
Monitor for Signs
Check legs and feet routinely for any scratches, cuts or indications of worsening swelling or skin irritation. Getting medical attention promptly is crucial in preventing minor wounds from developing into aggressive infections.
With proper care, most cellulitis cases heal fully within 1-3 weeks allowing for a safe return to exercise. But specialized care should be taken when training to avoid recurrence.
FAQs
Is it safe to exercise with active cellulitis?
No, aside from short doctor-approved walks, refrain from workouts that increase blood flow to infected areas when experiencing an active bout of cellulitis. This can worsen symptoms.
What helps prevent cellulitis from recurring after recovery?
Wearing compression stockings, boosting circulation through lower body exercises, properly caring for wounds, disinfecting gym equipment, and monitoring legs for signs of reinfection can all help prevent recurrence after healing.
Can I strength train or run after recovering from cellulitis?
After receiving medical clearance, you can gradually resume strength training and running. Take precautions like wearing compression gear, cleaning equipment, and monitoring your condition. Avoid overexertion initially.
How long until full activity resumption after cellulitis?
Most cases of cellulitis take 1-3 weeks to heal enough for gradual activity resumption, but severe infections may require longer rest. Advance activity levels slowly as tolerated under your doctor’s guidance.
What are warning signs the infection is getting worse?
Spreading redness, worsening pain and swelling, fever, dizziness, and flu-like symptoms signal the cellulitis infection is progressing rapidly. Seek prompt medical attention if experiencing advancing or severe symptoms.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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