5 Key Risks of High Cortisol Levels in Hockey Players
In the competitive world of high school, college, and professional hockey, athletes constantly push their bodies to the limit in pursuit of peak performance.
However, amidst the pursuit of excellence, a hidden adversary lurks within us: high cortisol levels. Cortisol, known as the “stress hormone,” plays a crucial role in the body’s response to stress. When levels remain elevated for extended periods, it can lead to detrimental effects, particularly in young athletes.
High cortisol levels are increasingly common among hockey players, particularly in regions like Minnesota where the sport dominates. Unlike other sports that may have seasonal breaks, hockey players here often specialize early, competing year-round in high-stakes games, practices, and rigorous strength and conditioning sessions.
This continuous strain places hockey athletes at a higher risk for elevated cortisol levels, given the sport’s intense physical demands and repetitive nature. This pattern isn’t exclusive to hockey, but for many Minnesota athletes, hockey is the primary sport, amplifying the impact of cortisol in these athletes’ daily routines.
Here’s a breakdown of the five most important risks related to elevated cortisol levels in hockey players and what can be done to manage them.
1. Increased Risk of Overuse Injuries
Hockey players face repetitive strain from actions like skating, shooting, and stickhandling. Elevated cortisol levels make it harder for the body to repair microtraumas in muscles and joints, increasing the likelihood of overuse injuries like tendonitis or stress fractures.
2. Muscle Breakdown and Fatigue
Cortisol triggers the breakdown of muscle proteins to provide energy during stress. When cortisol levels stay high, it weakens muscles, leading to increased fatigue and a higher risk of strains, sprains, and soft tissue injuries.
3. Slower Healing and Chronic Pain
Cortisol interferes with the body’s natural inflammatory response, which is essential for healing. When this process is suppressed, recovery from minor injuries slows down, leading to chronic pain and reduced mobility.
4. Impaired Cognitive Function
In hockey, split-second decisions are crucial. Elevated cortisol levels can negatively affect focus, reaction time, and judgment, increasing the chances of on-ice collisions and mistakes.
5. Mental and Emotional Stress
Beyond physical effects, high cortisol can contribute to anxiety, irritability, and difficulty managing stress. This mental strain not only impacts performance but can also affect an athlete’s overall well-being.
How to Combat High Cortisol Levels in Hockey Players
Identifying high cortisol levels can sometimes be done by observing certain risk factors, but the most objective measure is through a specialized blood test ordered by a primary care physician or sports medicine physician. Once high cortisol levels are identified, care plans are personalized, ranging from modified workloads and structured recovery regimens to dietary adjustments.
In rare cases where an athlete is genetically predisposed to cortisol accumulation, medications may be prescribed. Addressing high cortisol requires a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach. Here are four effective strategies:
1. Prioritize Recovery
Coaches, athletic trainers, and sports performance coaches should ensure athletes have rest days, follow proper nutrition, and stay hydrated.
2. Use Recovery Modalities
Full-body treatments like cryotherapy, sauna, intermittent compression devices, and massage can help manage stress and aid recovery.
3. Stress Management Education
Teach athletes mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and the importance of adequate sleep to help keep cortisol levels in check.
4. Build a Supportive Environment
Foster open communication where athletes feel comfortable discussing stress, both on and off the ice.
Conclusion
By recognizing and managing the risks of high cortisol, hockey players can safeguard their health and continue to perform at their best.
