Injury before I-day?

WHat would happen if I were to be injured before I day? I do some pretty contact heavy martial arts and I was wondering if I should risk continuing. And by injured, I dont mean like a broken bone or something, but rather something less serious but still slightly bothersome. I have been experiencing some slight shoulder pain for the past month or so, and I am actually getting quite nervous, worried, anxious, you name it. I have scheduled an appointment with a specialist to take a look at it, but I would be devastated if I couldn't go to the academy because of some stupid tear or something.

I'm certain there is better advice ahead but here's my opinion. Anxiety makes everything feel worse so relax. Let the doc advise you. Second, I don't think it's worth the risk to continue. All appointees are super motivated and athletic kids but now is not the time for a career ending injury. Run and workout but be cautious. These boards are full of kids who got injured and could not attend plebe summer, beast, etc. if there is a minor injury there is still likely rehab time but the academy/medical will have to make that call.

I hope this is a minor thing that is easily resolved.

You need to inform USNA and talk to them.

StayingPositive said:

WHat would happen if I were to be injured before I day? I do some pretty contact heavy martial arts and I was wondering if I should risk continuing. And by injured, I dont mean like a broken bone or something, but rather something less serious but still slightly bothersome. I have been experiencing some slight shoulder pain for the past month or so, and I am actually getting quite nervous, worried, anxious, you name it. I have scheduled an appointment with a specialist to take a look at it, but I would be devastated if I couldn't go to the academy because of some stupid tear or something.

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If it hurts, you body is telling you to stop. Stop and get it checked out. Your appointment is a once in a lifetime opportunity, why risk further injury?. Trini1066 is right... you should to be upfront with Academy if you find out it is something major. It is likely you would not be allowed to attend if it was a tear that could not heal in time. There are many stories here of people tearing a ligament 10 days before R-day. My DS is a competitive gymnast, with past ankle injuries from the sport, ... He withdrew from some competitions and we essentially banned him vault and floor programs in the state competition, anything that would risk re-injury, and he does not even have an appointment yet...

Best of Luck...

See what the doctor says and follow their advice. Understand your passion for martial arts, but once you get the green light I would lay off things that are higher risk. I say that because if you are this nervous you will be hesitant and that puts your body at further risk. You can pick up martial arts again at USNA. Focus on running, core exercises and more running between now and I-Day.

First and foremost get the shoulder evaluated by a good sports medicine practitioner. More often than not, you are experiencing pain from abnormal biomechanics. Be aware of your posture at all times. I recommend you Google, Foundation Training, Dr. Eric Goodman offers some great exercises.

More than likely your chronic shoulder pain is from bursitis and/or tendonitis. Get yourself some good physical therapy/soft tissue work/chiropractic treatment and you'll be on your way to healing. The most important thing to do is back off of the offending activities for a bit. Stay active and keep the endorphins flowing. FYI I wouldn't say anything to the academy just yet, no reason to raise red flags when there are none.