Getting Back onto your Feet after an Injury
If you’re just setting out on the road to recovery after a major injury, then you might start to think about the obstacles you might encounter along the way, and how you’ll contend with them. Often, the process is more complicated than expected, having a significant psychological component as well as a physical one.
So what steps might you take to ease and accelerate your recovery?
Listen to your physiotherapist
The human body is a very complicated thing, and while it’s a good idea to listen to the signals you’re getting from it, sometimes the interactions between the various muscles can lead to the underlying causes of a given pain being missed. For example, pain in your shoulder might in fact be a consequence of an overtight chest, pulling the joint slightly out of position. Seeing a physio will help you to assess your progress over time and identify any causes for concern.
See a psychologist
At the same time, if your injury is causing you psychological issues, then you should talk to someone with the proper training. Feelings of frustration and anger are common, especially if you’ve lost the ability to perform everyday tasks – and in extreme cases, it’s worth seeking help. This is especially the case if you’re suffering from the symptoms of PTSD, like flashbacks, lost sleep, and nightmares.
Listen to your Doctor’s orders
The advice given by your doctor is your best shot at an optimal recovery. They have the necessary skills and training to assess your specific problems much more precisely than even the most exhaustive Google search. If they, or any other medical professional you deal with, fail to provide the required standard of care, then you might seek the services of a specialised medical negligence solicitor to seek a legal remedy.
Take it slowly
Rushing your recovery can lead to setbacks. Don’t push yourself to perform steps that you’re not ready for and accept offers of help from friends and family when it comes to taking the strain off. It’s consistency that’s key when it comes to this sort of thing; do a little bit every day, and you’ll eventually get there.
Take up a new hobby
One thing that’s likely to take its toll during your recovery is the boredom – especially if you’re no longer able to do a lot of the things that you previously relied on. Think about taking up a new way to pass the time. This might be reading, drawing, baking, or a whole range of other activities. Think about what you’re able to do and pick an activity accordingly. You might even find a supportive online community there to help you improve.