Athletes choose to be physically active to stay fit and healthy, to strengthen muscles and bones, to relieve mental and emotional stress, and to have fun. But when the fun gets interrupted by an unexpected injury, it can be challenging on both the mind and the body.

Injury often occurs from the overuse of muscles and joints due to repeated activity. It can also result from not allowing enough time for rest or from general wear and tear on the body.

Typically, injury is a signal to slow down, but that does not mean you cannot be proactive in your healing. Here are three forms of athletic therapy to assist an injured athlete in recovery:

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Cranio-Sacral Therapy (CST)

CST is a gentle, non-invasive, hands-on method of evaluating and enhancing the body's own natural healing mechanisms. The focus of this work is on the craniosacral system, which consists of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. This system extends from the bones of the skull, face and mouth (cranium) and reaches down the spine to the sacrum and coccyx or tailbone.

CST helps speed recovery, increases health of the entire body, improves resistance to disease, and assists a return to wellness. The gentle approach promotes tissue to soften, increasing fluid exchange which allows the tissue to open up and breathe.

A session can help relieve headaches and migraines, chronic neck and back pain, stress- and tension-related problems, traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries, scoliosis, TMJ and a range of other challenges and conditions.

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Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy is the application of water to the body, either externally or internally, for therapeutic purposes. Utilizing water in a solid, liquid, or vapor form alters the quantity of blood circulating to a given area. The physiology of the body can be changed by the application of water at different temperatures and with different methods to promote healing.

Heat is used to quiet and soothe the body and to slow down the activity of the internal organs. If you are experiencing tight muscles or anxiety, heat is recommended in the shower or bath. The use of heat promotes circulation of the blood and lymph, increases cell metabolism and digestive activity, relieves cramps and muscle spasm, eases mental and physical stress, and loosens tight muscles, encouraging relaxation.

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Cold is used to stimulate and invigorate, increasing internal activity of the body. If you are feeling tired or stressed, it is recommended to take a warm shower or bath followed by a short cold shower or bath to help stimulate the body and mind. Cold application decreases circulation of the blood and lymph, reduces cell metabolism, relieves pain, and promotes muscle contraction.

In general, water hydrates the cells, improving skin and muscle tone. It also boosts the immune system, allowing it to function more efficiently. Some hydrotherapy treatments include baths and showers, neutral baths, sitz baths, foot baths, cold mitten friction rub, ice massage, steam inhalation, hot compresses, cold compresses, alternating hot and cold, body wrap, wet sheet pack and salt glow.

More: Heat vs. Ice: Best Practices for Treating an Injury

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is the practice of manipulating a person's muscles and other soft tissue with the intent of improving a person's well-being or health. This therapy may include, but is not limited to, effleurage, deep tissue, percussion, vibration and joint movement.

The varieties of techniques are designed to relax the muscles and increase circulation of the blood and movement of the lymph fluids. One of the main purposes of massage is to increase the oxygen flow in the blood and to release toxins from the muscles.

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On a physical level, massage helps to lower stress and aids relaxation. It relieves muscle tension and stiffness and reduces muscle spasms. It also promotes faster healing of strained muscles and sprained ligaments, reducing pain and swelling and the formation of excessive scar tissue.

Massage provides greater joint flexibility and range of motion, enhances athletic performance and is rehabilitative to injuries. It also boosts the health and nourishment of the skin and improves posture.

Massage is an athletic therapy that offers mental and emotional benefits as well. Receiving massage fosters peace of mind, promotes a relaxed state of mental alertness, helps relieve mental stress, improves ability to monitor stress signals and to respond appropriately and enhances the capacity for calm thinking and creativity. It also satisfies needs for a nurturing touch, encourages a feeling of well-being, reduces levels of anxiety, creates body awareness and increases the consciousness of a mind-body connection.

More: Myofascial Release: Massage Away Your Muscle Tension

Once you're fully healed, sign up for your next race.