Recovering from an injury can be a long and stressful process – particularly if the injury has restricted your ability to work and to exercise. A speedy and full recovery can often take dedication and perseverance – and in severe cases, there are mental barriers to overcome.
But sometimes, all that’s required is time and patience, and the best thing to do can be nothing at all.
Listen to your doctor
The medical advice you receive will vary from injury to injury, and there’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ remedy that’ll cover every injury and individual. As such, your physical recovery should be based on your doctor’s advice. When your progress is being assessed, make sure that you have all of your questions to hand – and don’t be afraid to pick up the phone if you feel that something isn’t right.
Take things steady
Pushing too hard on your way back from injury can often result in a setback or a relapse. If you feel that you’re making good progress, then learn to be satisfied with small steps. If you’re right at the start of a recovery from a severe injury, then your ability to look after yourself might be compromised. Don’t be too proud to rely on other people – especially if they’re willing to lend a hand!
Cross-train
Performing the same exercise over and over again means that your bones and muscles will become overspecialised, which will increase the risk of injury. If you run for two hours a week, for example, then you’ll subject your calves to the same few motions over and over again. Cross-training is the solution. Swap a session out for something different – a session on the cross-trainer at your gym, or a yoga class, can work wonders.
Get Compensation
If you’re recovering from an injury that wasn’t your fault, then you might be entitled to compensation. While many of us are willing to accept that victims of accidents deserve compensation, a surprisingly small proportion of us are willing to claim that compensation for ourselves. Don’t hesitate to get the help you need – especially if you’re struggling financially as a result of your injury. Personal injury solicitors usually proceed on a no-win, no-fee basis. Thus you won’t be exposing yourself to financial risk if you decide to take legal action.
Look after yourself mentally
A protracted spell on the side-lines can lead to feelings of frustration, inadequacy, and boredom. Recognise these feelings and learn that they’re rarely rooted in rationality. If you need a way of occupying yourself while you’re physically inactive, then it might be time to take up a new hobby. Look at your progress with your newfound pastime as a way to fill the time you’re spending with the injury – you might find that the days fly by!
